Created in 1997, the Family Violence Unit provides intensive case management and comprehensive services to victims of domestic violence. Services may include any or all of the following:

¨ Advising victims of the status of the case
¨ Documenting for restitution purposes any financial loss the victim suffered as a result of the crime
¨ Providing accurate information and education about the criminal justice process
¨ Accompanying victims to court hearings
¨ Referring victims to community resources, such as legal services, mental or physical health treatment, clothing and financial assistance, child care providers, emergency funding, safe houses, police agencies
¨ Advocating within the criminal justice system
¨ Assisting with the application, when appropriate, for Crime Victims' Compensation benefits
¨ Giving emotional support

The Family Violence Specialist supervises volunteer advocates working in the Family Violence Unit. A minimum commitment of 8 hours per week, with potential additional hours required at the time of trial, is required.