The goal of advocacy services is to increase client safety through enhanced knowledge and understanding of available resources and options to provide support to clients in accessing appropriate resources. The OFWDSVS community-based advocates provide court and legal advocacy as well as housing and economic support. The advocates work within the empowerment model to preserve the client’s right to self-determination.
Court and Legal Advocacy
The court system can be scary and confusing. Our specially trained Victim Advocates are here to explain the processes and what to expect. Sometimes having someone by your side takes some of the anxiety and stress away. YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Our Victim Advocates provide:
- Information about your rights as a victim
- Assistance in applying for a protective order *
- Information about court procedures
- Court accompaniment
- Court appearance
- Talking with you after court to debrief and discuss next steps
- Safety planning
- Referral to other programs and services
You do not need to move forward with criminal proceedings in order to receive these free services.
Additional Resources
Fairfax County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court
Legal Services of Northern Virginia
Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE)*
*Fairfax County is committed to nondiscrimination in all county programs, services and activities. To request reasonable accommodations or to receive this information in an alternate format, call 703-324-5730 or TTY 711.
