Victim/Witness Assistance Division
The overall mission of the Essex District Attorney’s Victim Witness Services Division is to provide information, assistance, support and services to crime victims, their family members and witnesses in compliance with the Victim Rights Law, M.G.L., c. 258B. Started in 1979, the Division provides crisis intervention services, court accompaniment, and referrals for counseling and victim compensation. Victim Witness Advocates also provide information about Victim Impact Statements and post conviction services.
The Essex District Attorney’s Office prosecutes approximately 32,000 cases annually. Each year, the Division provides services in more than 10,000 new court cases and serves more than 16,800 victims and witnesses. This number does not include services provided when victims ‘walk-in’ or call for assistance, and in cases when a criminal complaint is not issued. Advocates are located in the eight district courts, three separate juvenile courts and the District Attorney’s main office. Through vertical prosecution, the advocates follow felony cases to assigned superior court sessions. Specialized services are provided to victims of domestic violence, child abuse, senior citizens and persons with disabilities.