SPECIFIC CASE INFORMATION for Victims and Family Members State vs. Docket number: File number: Prosecutor's name and number: VICTIM ADVOCATES OFFICE OF VICTIM SERVICES Victim Advocate's name and number: Notes: STATE OF CONNECTICUT JUDICIAL BRANCH 31 Cooke Street Plainville, CT 06062 www.jud.state.ct.us (Click on Victim Services) JD-VS-14P 1-02 American LegalNet, Inc. www.FormsWorkflow.com The Office of Victim Services (OVS), Connecticut Judicial Branch, offers many types of support to crime victims and their families. Victim Advocates help crime victims with criminal justice system procedures. Advocates also reassure crime victims and refer them to resources that may reduce the trauma associated with crime. Advocates provide information about: • • • • the criminal justice system victim rights a specific case other victim services Advocates may assist victims by: • providing an escort to court • advocating for them during court procedures Advocates may help with: • • • • getting property back obtaining restitution social service referrals writing a victim impact statement Other help available from the Office of Victim Services includes notification about the convicted person's status, and financial compensation. Call 1-800-822-8428 toll-free. Outside of CT: (860) 747-3994 Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. Talking with people outside the courtroom: Crime victims are the State's primary witnesses. The prosecutor represents the State's interests. Victims are important to the prosecutor's case. Assistant state's attorneys also work with crime victims. Others may try to contact victims to get information. There is no obligation to talk to the defendant, defense counsel or defense investigators. The victim should ask what office each person represents, and their name. Victims and family members also have no obligation to communicate with media representatives. Call your local victim advocate or OVS (1-800-822-8428) if you have questions Guidelines for Court Testimony Very few crime victims are asked to testify in court. Here are some helpful tips if you testify: • be prepared to wait • always tell the truth • stop speaking when someone says "objection" • keep calm • if a question is unclear, say so • do not volunteer extra information • speak clearly and loudly so the juror farthest away can hear • dress neatly • be polite American LegalNet, Inc. www.FormsWorkflow.com