The DA’s Office works to ensure crime victims have a meaningful role in the criminal justice system and to accord them due dignity and respect. Every effort is made to maximize victim involvement at every possible stage of a criminal case. All victims of crimes being prosecuted by the DA’s Office will receive information about their rights as victims; an opportunity to submit information about their losses for restitution; and notification letters on case status and disposition. The participation and cooperation of crime victims is a valued part of the prosecution process.

Victim Advocates

Victim advocates are generally assigned in felony and domestic violence cases. Advocates work directly with victims to explain the criminal justice system, including what rights are available to them, provide court accompaniment, offer referral information to appropriate community services, and guide victims through the prosecution process.

Other Services for Victims

The Crime Victims’ Compensation Program (CVCP) of the Oregon Department of Justice may be able to assist with payment of medical bills, counseling costs, and funeral/burial costs. To be eligible for CVCP a victim must:

• Be a victim of a person-to-person crime that occurred in Oregon, or an Oregon resident victimized in a state without a CVCP (victims of property crimes are not eligible);
• Report the crime to law enforcement within 72 hours of the crime or disclosure of the crime by a child victim;
• Cooperate fully to apprehend and prosecute the assailant; and
• Apply for compensation within 6 months of the crime or disclosure of the crime by a child victim.

Our office can assist crime victims and relatives, who are not able to do so independently, in gathering information and completing their applications in order to submit a claim for compensation under ORS 147.005 to 147.365.

Sexual Assault Support

Our office provides 24-hour on-call response to victims of sexual assault. This immediate crisis intervention service is followed by ongoing support and advocacy throughout the investigation and prosecution of the case.

Protective Orders

Victim advocates can help you with information about protective orders, which restrict contact from people who are potentially harmful, including the following:

• Family Abuse Prevention Act (FAPA) Restraining Orders provide protection from abuse by a family member, household member, former household member, or person with whom the victim has had a sexual relationship or child. The abuse must have been committed within the last 180 days.
• Elder/Disabled Abuse Prevention Act (EDAPA) Restraining Orders provide abuse protection for people aged 65+ or people who are vulnerable due to a disability. They address physical, verbal, financial, and sexual abuse, as well as neglect. The abuse must have been committed within the last 180 days.
• Stalking Protective Orders provide protection for people who are being stalked. Stalking is usually characterized by a pattern of intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly alarming or coercing another person, or engaging in unwanted or repeated contact.

Property Return

Victim advocates are available to provide information and assistance to crime victims and family members of deceased crime victims about the process for the return of property held as evidence.