Have you been a victim of a heinous crime like human trafficking, sexual assault, or rape?
These crimes have far-reaching effects on a victim’s life. Although victims have the right to seek justice through the court system, the process can be daunting and intimidating.
Having a victim advocate can help you pursue the justice you deserve while also reducing the stress and confusion associated with the judicial system.
Victim advocates, such as Aubrey Harris in New Orleans Louisiana, help their clients in a number of ways. From ensuring that you are protected with stay away orders to communicating on your behalf with district attorneys, a victim advocate can help you navigate the complex court system and make decisions that reflect your best interests.
What happens if my attacker is jailed?
The first step to justice can involve the arrest and incarceration of your attacker. While there is comfort knowing that the perpetrator has a warrant out for his/her arrest or has been jailed, victims often wonder what will happen when their attacker is out on bond or released from incarceration.
A victim advocate attorney can help when it comes to understanding how incarceration will affect a victim. Many victims have questions about maintaining their safety after their attacker is released from jail or prison along with what can be done to maintain safety while waiting for court proceedings. Hiring an attorney who understands all facets of the legal system helps victims protect their privacy and safeguard their wellbeing.
Do I need a protective/stay away order?
In a perfect world, a perpetrator who has been charged with a crime or incarcerated would be deterred from threatening behavior but this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, victims need additional protection with protective orders and stay away orders. These orders can help prevent unwanted contact and help a victim feel safer as they recover from trauma.
These orders must be issued by a judge. Although anyone can file for these orders and represent themselves in a hearing, having an attorney file them for you and speak on your behalf can ensure that you have a strong enough case for a judge to rule in your favor.
Can a victim advocate help me communicate with a district attorney?
Crimes such as sexual assault and human trafficking are handled by district attorneys who prosecute the case on behalf of the state. District attorneys perform a great service to the people of Louisiana but they are often overloaded with cases. There are also high turnover rates within district attorney offices because of the grueling nature of this work. A victim advocate can help demystify the process of prosecuting crimes, answer questions you might have, and communicate with prosecutors for you.
One of the most important steps for victims pursuing justice is their initial communication with a district attorney. This initial screening can occur in-person or on the phone. For a victim, this process can be traumatic and stressful. A victim advocate can help you prepare for initial communication, relay any important evidence or developments in your case to a district attorney, and provide emotional support.
The road to trial can take months and even years. Trying crimes is a complex process that can be confusing to victims, too. Victim advocates can keep you updated on the developments of your case by communicating with the district attorney’s office and explaining how these developments affect your case.
Our victim advocate, Aubrey Harris, has experience as both a defense attorney and a prosecutor. She understands the intricacies of the criminal justice system including how district attorneys approach cases. Beyond representing a victim’s best interests in criminal proceedings, Aubrey Harris can help clients navigate their civil suit options to recover lost wages and reimbursement for medical costs.
Our firm fights tirelessly for our clients.
We believe in treating victims with the dignity and respect they deserve as they pursue their constitutional rights to justice.
