Often, they are scared and confused about the criminal justice system. Victims of crime have a wide range of expectations about the courts and the Hennepin County Attorney's Office. Information is the crucial key to making sure these victims feel involved and important. Assistance Program of the Hennepin County Attorney's Office provides advocacy, support and referrals for victims of crime as their cases move through the criminal justice process. There are specially-trained advocates who offer information and support to victims of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, homicide and property crimes.
Advocates provide information about the particular case, court dates and sentencing outcomes.
Both units are available to answer crime-specific questions about victimization, community organizations that can be of service and questions about the criminal justice process. Two gang violence advocates are available to provide advocacy services to these victims in safe environments. Victims of gang violence often have special concerns about safety. The gang victim advocates can help provide information on safety plans, relocation and lock replacement, as well as crisis referrals and support. Many victims of crime are new arrivals to this country.