NCJ Number
98966
Date Published
1983
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This film portrays how an advocate program can assist a victim by providing guidance and emotional support.
Abstract
A retiree is attacked and has her purse stolen subsequent to cashing her pension check. The victim is assigned a victim advocate who explains the program's purpose. The advocate is there to lend assistance, offer guidance, be a friend, give some emotional support, and encourage the victim to go to court. The victim expresses fear and uncertainty at the process; the advocate explains that these are the main causes for cases like this to never get to court. An effort is made to allay the victim's fears and the advocate explains some of the later emotional reactions which arise from doing nothing. During every step of the legal proceedings, the advocate is there to explain what the process is and to continually reassure the victim.