NCJ Number
118763
Date Published
1985
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This overview of the purpose and operation of the Federal Victim Assistance Program is intended for use by elected officials, criminal justice personnel, victim assistance organizations, and concerned citizens.
Abstract
The program incorporates recommendations developed by the 1982 President's Task Force on Victims of Crime. Its goal is to improve the treatment of crime victims by providing them with the services necessary to speed their recovery from the crime and to support them as they move through the criminal justice process. The steps involved in establishing a program include assessing the existing victim services in the community, defining the program model, identifying the sources of victim access, identifying the services to be provided, and developing a standard evaluation process. Services can include crisis intervention, counseling, support during criminal justice proceedings, training, public awareness efforts, and prevention activities. Separating programs into two distinct parts focusing on the court experience and on reducing the effects of crime appears to be the most effective approach. Lists of sources of further information and 24 suggested readings.