Victim Witness Program

The Prince Edward County Victim/Witness Assistance Program is designed to ensure that Victims and Witnesses of criminal offenses will receive fair and compassionate treatment throughout the judicial process. Legislation has been passed which guarantees certain rights to victims of crime. This program's primary purpose is to strive towards preserving and protecting these rights.

The role of a Witness is an important one and the responsibilities involved may be unfamiliar to many. The legal process, frequently long and complicated, often fails to address the needs of Victims and Witnesses. The Victim/Witness Program is available to make sure that these needs are met.

Available services include but are not limited to:

• Advance notice of court hearings
• Case status information and updates
• Protective Orders
• Restitution for damages/loss/medical expenses
• Separate waiting areas
• Support before, during and after court

Contact the Victim/Witness Coordinator if:

• You have questions about your role as a witness
• You would like an explanation of court procedures or tour of the courtroom before you testify
• You need someone to speak to your employer to request that you be allowed to appear as a witness without loss of wages
• You cannot find someone to care for your children while appearing in court
• Your personal property is being held as evidence and you want to know when you can recover it
• You need referral to social service agencies that provide emergency financial, medical, or psychological assistance to crime victims
• You need assistance in preparing your victim impact statement
• You are not receiving restitution payments that were ordered by the court
• You need to notify us of a change of address or telephone number
• You have any other questions regarding your case