The key to a successful prosecution often lies with cooperation from the victims and witnesses. As a victim of a crime you may be called upon to play a significant role in making our American system of justice work. Without your participation, a satisfactory disposition of the case will, in most cases, be impossible. Our government provides constitutional safeguards for the accused. That person is entitled to legal representation, to be confronted by his accuser and to have his guilt proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The Victims’ Rights Amendment of the Florida Constitution provides certain rights to the victim. We are committed to ensuring those rights are honored and to assisting you in fulfilling your obligations throughout the process.
The State Attorney has several resources available to help victims and witnesses navigate the criminal court system. Quite often victims and witnesses have questions about how the system works and what to expect. Our victim advocates and witness coordinators are among the several resources that can provide you with information, support and direction throughout the judicial process.
The State Attorney’s Office, Ninth Judicial Circuit, strives to provide effective, efficient, and equitable services to all individuals regardless of their ability to speak, read, or write English. Service delivery options (translation of publication, oral language assistance, etc.,) are available to Limited English Proficiency individuals, enabling them to communicate effectively with the State Attorney personnel in person, over the phone, in writing, and through electronic media. If you need instructions to process the U-VISA, I-918 Supplement B Form with our office, please visit our U-VISA Instructions Page.
Victim Advocates & Services
Victims of crime are entitled to information regarding what to expect from the criminal justice system and how to receive available assistance. Advocates at the Ninth Circuit State Attorney’s Office provide the following services:
- Emotional support to victims and witnesses of crime
- Information concerning stages in the criminal or juvenile justice process and the role of the victim
- Courtroom orientation and accompaniment
- Crisis intervention services and groups
- Referrals to social service agencies
- Assistance completing Florida Crime Victim Compensation claims
Crime Victim Compensation
If you were physically or psychologically injured as a result of a crime, Crime Victim Compensation may be able to help with medical bills, mental health counseling, lost wages, disability, burial or other expenses that were incurred because of the crime (exceptions may apply). Reimbursement for property loss is for elderly or disabled adults only.
Each application is reviewed by the Office of the Attorney General on an individual basis to determine eligibility. There is no guarantee that you will receive a payment. This program is administered by the Office of the Attorney General. Applications and assistance in applying for benefits are also available through a Ninth Circuit State Attorney Victim Liaison. The Crime Victim Compensation brochure is available in English, Spanish and Creole.
Learn more about Rights of a Crime Victim.
