NCJ Number
127152
Journal
Pepperdine Law Review Volume: 17 Issue: 1 Dated: (1989) Pages: 129-143
Date Published
1989
Length
15 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the nature of victimization and its impact as well as existing victim services and rights, this article identifies and discusses eight emerging issues in victim assistance.
Abstract
Crime victims typically suffer three types of injury: financial, physical, and emotional. In addition, "second assault" often occurs from insensitive institutional reactions to and management of victims. In responding to these victim needs, existing victim services include a broad range of services designed to aid victims from the commission of the crime until after case disposition and beyond. Services include victim compensation programs, assistance with insurance claims, legal referrals for civil recourse, restitution programs, vocational rehabilitation, physical therapy, and mental health services. Emerging issues in victim assistance are research on the trauma of victimization, the development and implementation of a standard for victim services, the incorporation of violence prevention programs into victim assistance programs, and a re-examination of the nature and scope of victim assistance programs. Other emerging issues are reform in victim reparations, making victim services a permanent part of the social and governmental structure, and the interpretation and expansion of victim rights. 38 footnotes