Victim/Witness Assistance Program
Learn how the program helps victims and witnesses of crime and how to access services.
Overview
If you are a victim or witness of a crime, you may need to go to court. This can be a difficult experience and you may have questions about the criminal court process and what will be expected of you.
The Victim/Witness Assistance Program is a court-based program that provides information, help and support to victims and witnesses of crime so they can understand and participate in the criminal court process. A victim/witness service worker will talk with you and assist you based on your specific case and needs.
The Victim/Witness Assistance Program can:
- provide you with information about your case, victims’ rights and the criminal court process
- provide you with information about courtroom procedures and your role in court
- help you understand what to expect at each court date and help prepare you for your appearance in court
- provide you with key court updates
- provide you with copies of court orders, such as bail conditions and probation orders
- coordinate with the Crown attorney to provide your input, concerns and needs as they relate to the criminal court case
- connect you with the police to discuss your safety concerns and any other information you wish to provide about the crime
- offer emotional support throughout the court process
- refer you to community agencies, including Indigenous and other culturally specific agencies, for additional services and supports you may need, such as counselling and safety planning
- arrange for language interpreters and help ensure accommodations for any disabilities are met throughout your involvement with the program and while at court
- assess eligibility for support through the Vulnerable Victims and Family Fund that will assist you to participate in the court process
- help you understand and complete a Victim Impact Statement and a Statement on Restitution
The services start once police have laid charges and will continue until the court case is over. Services are free and your participation with the program is voluntary.
Who can use this service
Services are provided to victims and their families and witnesses involved in the following types of cases:
- homicide
- human trafficking
- intimate partner violence/domestic violence
- child abuse
- sexual assault
- elder abuse
- hate crimes
- motor vehicle fatality cases resulting in criminal charges
- other violent crimes involving a victim with a disability
How to access the program
If you are a victim of one of the crimes listed above, your information may be shared directly with the program by police or a Crown attorney.
If you are a victim of violent crime and wish to speak with someone about accessing services, you can also call the program.
Contact
The Ministry of the Attorney General offers the Victim/Witness Assistance Program in all 54 court districts.
To find the office nearest you, you can call the Victim Support Line at