Since taking office in January 2021, District Attorney Williams has made it a priority to truly listen to the voices of victims and witnesses. With heartfelt determination, the Victim/Witness staff has been doubled in size, ensuring that no one’s story goes unnoticed or unheard.
But there’s more to it than just numbers. Recognizing the unique struggles faced by young individuals entangled in the justice system, a compassionate and trailblazing Victim/Witness Advocate has been specifically assigned to the Juvenile Division. This advocate is there to lend a helping hand, offering genuine support and guidance during what can often feel like an overwhelming journey.
Imagine having a trusted companion by your side throughout this process. An advocate who keeps you in the loop, providing regular updates on the progress of your case, and making sure you’re always informed about what’s happening. And it doesn’t stop there. This advocate goes above and beyond, connecting you with vital resources that cater to your specific needs, ensuring that you never have to face the challenges alone.
Your safety matters above all else. That’s why Victim/Witness Advocates take the time to thoroughly assess any potential risks or concerns you might face. They tirelessly work to provide essential services and assistance whenever you need them, putting your well-being at the forefront.
But their support doesn’t end there. With genuine empathy and understanding, these advocates stand by your side, as well as the side of your loved ones and witnesses, through every step of the process. They become a constant presence, accompanying you to courtroom hearings, helping you prepare for trial, and ensuring that your rights are not only acknowledged but fiercely protected at all times.
In the quest for justice, District Attorney Williams and the dedicated Victim/Witness staff have become a beacon of support, compassion, and unwavering commitment. Together, they are reshaping the landscape of the criminal justice system, offering solace, strength, and a human touch to every victim and witness who walks through their doors.
WHO WE ARE:
WHAT WE DO:
- Victim/Witness Advocates:
- Advocates are individuals within the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office who specialize in providing support and assistance to individuals who have been victims of crime or who have witnessed a crime.
- Handling Sensitive and Delicate Cases:
- Advocates deal with cases that are particularly sensitive and delicate in nature. These may involve crimes that have caused significant emotional or physical harm to the victims or witnesses.
- Caring Team:
- Advocates are a caring team, we approach our work with empathy and compassion. This is important when dealing with individuals who have experienced trauma.
- Experienced, Trauma-Informed Advocates:
- The team of Advocates is not only caring but also experienced and trauma-informed. Being trauma-informed means that they have an understanding of how trauma can impact individuals and are equipped to provide support in a way that is sensitive to the emotional challenges victims and witnesses may be facing.
- Working closely with Crime Victims and Witnesses:
- Advocates establish a close working relationship with both crime victims and witnesses. This closeness implies a level of trust and collaboration in addressing the needs of those affected by the crime.
- Providing Education, Knowledge, Guidance, and Emotional Support:
- Advocates offer a range of support services, including education about the criminal justice process, providing knowledge about what to expect, offering guidance on legal procedures, and providing emotional support. This comprehensive approach aims to assist victims and witnesses through every step of the criminal justice process.
IT CAN HAPPEN TO ANYONE.
In the US, domestic violence is a widespread problem. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 7 men experience physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime and report negative impacts such as injury, fear, concern for safety, and needing services.
HELP IS AVAILABLE.
Without help, domestic violence often continues to get more and more severe over time and can become deadly. Please know that you have options.
If you are in danger, call 911 immediately or a 24/7 crisis hotline if it is safe to do so. Below is a list of hotlines to call:
Orleans Parish DA’s Office Victim/Witness Unit (504) 822-2414
New Orleans Family Justice Center (504) 866-9554 (Immediate safe housing and legal aid for those fleeing domestic violence and abuse; Free; Confidential location).
Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response (855) 435-7827
National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1 (800) 799-7233 and TTY 1-800-787-3224
Catholic Charities Domestic Violence Services (504) 310-6872
LA Statewide DV Hotline (888) 411-1333
SAFETY PLANNING IS KEY.
Many survivors find it helpful to implement concrete safety plans in the case of an emergency, whether they are planning to leave or stay in the relationship.
HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTIONS:
- Memorize emergency numbers for local police, support persons, and crisis hotlines.
- Identify escape routes and places to go if you need to flee from an unsafe situation quickly.
- Put together an emergency bag with money/checkbooks, extra keys, medicine, and important papers.
- Talk with your children and/or other household members about what they should do if an incident occurs.
- Trust your instincts – if you think you are in immediate danger, you probably are.
For support, please call our office.
Testimonials
“Being a victim of crime impacted my life in many different ways. Sometimes I can’t sleep or eat. When I go out sometimes I get scared. I’m in and out of the hospital, trying to cope with all of this. It was very difficult and it is still difficult living with what I have been through. I know I always have Claire to help me stay strong and keep my head up.”
“Living through the murder of your child is unbearable. During the judicial process the fear, isolation, and uncertainty becomes all consuming. Because of our Victims Advocate, we have felt informed, included, and supported every step of the way.”