Working to provide you with access to information, and advocacy to secure your rights in the criminal justice system.
How We Can Help
The Victim Services Unit is here to help victims and witnesses of crime during their involvement with the criminal justice system. Upon request, we will provide the following services:
- Understanding court procedures and legal terms
(click here to download the Crime Victim Rights Book)
- Referrals for counseling, support groups, or any other needed services
- Directions to obtain a personal protection order
(click here to download the Wayne County Council Against Family
Violence PPO pamphlet)
- Directives on what to do if a defendant (or friends or family of) is harassing or making threats
- Preparing to testify in court
- Support at court proceedings
- Act as a link to the Assistant Prosecutor
- Updates of all court events
Coming to Third Circuit Court? Review this list of prohibited items. (Prohibited 3rd Circuit Items)
Contact Information
If you need further information or our assistance, please contact the Victim Services Unit at (313) 224-5800.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. When and how will the defendant get arrested?
A. A defendant may be arrested at the crime scene. If not, a warrant is issued and put into the LEIN (Law Enforcement Information Network) system so the defendant could be picked up any time, at any location.
Q. How do I protect myself when the defendant is released?
A. The court will normally issue a "no contact" order upon the defendant's release. If there is contact, call 911 immediately. This would be a violation of a bond condition. Notify the Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Assigned to the case immediately.
Q. Why do I have to go to court? I made a report to the police officer, I went to the domestic violence unit, and also spoke to a prosecutor.
A. Your case will be decided in court. In court, the person responsible for your injury and loss (defendant) will be held accountable.
Q. How many times do I have to tell what happens?
A. The number of times you must tell what happened depends upon how long the court process takes before there is a final outcome.
Q. Will I have to testify?
A. Not always. It depends upon how the willing the defendant is to take responsibility for his or her acts(s).
Q. Will anyone contact me when the defendant is released from jail?
A. It is unlikely. Rarely is the Prosecutor's Office informed of a defendant making bond.
Q. Why was my case dismissed?
A. Cases can be dismissed for numerous reasons. Most common is when a witness failed to appear. Another reason may be as a part of a plea agreement. You have the right to be consulted before a plea agreement, but the final decision remains with the Prosecutor.
Q. Where do I obtain a PPO?
A. The Clerk's Office in the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center (call (313) 224-6292).
Q. If the defendant violates the PPO what should I do?
A. Call 911. If the defendant is arrested an arraignment will be held, bond set, and a hearing date scheduled. If the defendant is not arrested you may file a Show Cause Motion. (Forms are available at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center – call (313) 224-6292.)
Q. I was not satisfied with the Prosecutor on my case. What do I do?
A. You can call the docket attorney/supervisor or deputy chief. Every APA will give you his or her supervisor's name and phone number. If you are still dissatisfied, each division has a Chief that you can take your concerns to.
Q. How long will it take for me to obtain my restitution?
A. The restitution order is not limited by time constraints; it remains in effect until satisfied in full.
Q. Why do I have to pay for the police storing my car for evidence? I feel like a victim all over again.
A. Rarely is a car kept for evidence. If impounded, then the car does need to be picked up and paid for. At the conclusion of the case the court may order the defendant to pay restitution for these costs.
Q. My car was stolen. Where is my car?
A. Various police agencies use different impound lots. The Officer in Charge of the case usually knows where the car is, or can find out the location.
Q. I want to drop charges. How can I do that?
A. Dropping charges is a decision of the Prosecutor's Office, but your concerns will be noted and taken into account.
Q. Why did it take so long for the court hearing? This crime happened last year.
A. If the defendant is arrested at the scene or shortly thereafter, then process moves faster. If the police have difficulty arresting the defendant then the process slows down.
Q. When a bench warrant (defendant did not appear for a scheduled court appearance) is issued will the police pick the defendant up immediately?
A. After a bench warrant is issued, an entry into the LEIN (Law Enforcement Information Network) system takes effect. Once entered, the police may arrest the defendant at any time, at any location.
Q. Will court start on time?
A. Each judge runs his or her courtroom differently. All efforts are made to minimize any inconveniences, but some courtrooms may start later than others.
Q. Can they re-schedule my court date?
A. It is very difficult to reschedule a court hearing. If there is a genuine problem involving illness or unexpected emergencies the court MAY grant an adjournment. The best policy is to plan on attending court hearings as scheduled.
Q. Do I need to attend this court hearing?
A. Your attendance may or may not be required but you have the right to attend every hearing. Your Advocate or APA will know if you are required to be present.
Q. Will the defendant appear in the courtroom?
A. Yes, the defendant will be in court for every court appearance.
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