NCJ Number
104996
Date Published
1987
Length
94 pages
Annotation
This manual presents the history, eligibility criteria, funding guidelines, and other program and administrative guidelines for California's program to provide funding for local comprehensive centers for victims and witnesses of all types of crimes.
Abstract
Legislation passed in 1979 and 1983 established the program. The State's Office of Criminal Justice Planning provides funds to public or private nonprofit agencies. Agencies must provide translation services for clients who do not speak English, must offer services within 24 hours of learning of a crime incident, and must develop a followup procedure to assure that clients are connected with needed services. Other required general program components are field visits, volunteer participation, services for the elderly, and coordination with other agencies. Direct services must include crisis intervention, emergency assistance, resource and referral counseling, followup counseling, help to victims in filing for claims for victim compensation, assistance in obtaining returns of stolen property, and brochures and other printed or verbal information on the criminal justice system. Centers must also provide court appearance information, training, publicity, employer intervention, notification of friends and relatives, and information on the status of the victim's case. List of optional services, description of documentation requirements, appended text of State law, tables, and forms.