The program is set up in accordance with Guidelines written by the Victim Assistance Policy Committee. The Victim Rights Constitutional Amendment and Implementing Legislation was passed by the South Carolina General Assembly in 1997 and 1998. We are required by law to attempt to notify victims, should they wish to be, of all proceedings in a case. The Victim-Witness Assistance Unit of the Solicitor's Office aids crime victims by offering many services that are confidential and free of charge.
Advocates inform victims of their rights.
They act as liaisons between the victims and other agencies. They attend court hearings with victims or attend on their behalf. They inform victims of hearing dates, case updates, and defendant's sentences. They set up pretrial conferences upon a Solicitor's request and attend them. They attend hearings when requested to attend by the victim or their family.