Justice Center of the Southern Tier
HELPING VICTIMS BECOME SURVIVORS
OUR MISSION
The mission of the Justice Center of the Southern Tier is to support and assist victims of crime and their family members to empower them to live free from violence and fear. The Justice Center uses a collaborative process which helps to remove barriers to services enabling victims to heal and cultivate hope.
WHO WE ARE
The Justice Center of the Southern Tier is a multidisciplinary team dedicated to aiding victims in their pursuit of justice. By consolidating a range of services in a single location, we aim to provide comprehensive support to those in need.
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
As a victim of crime you have a number of rights within the criminal justice system.
You have the right to ask for crime victim compensation.
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• The repair or replacement of essential personal property
• Loss of earnings or support
• Medical bills
• Mental Health counseling
• Crime scene clean - up
• Funeral bills
YOU MAY ALSO RECEIVE COMPENSATIONS FOR YOUR LOSSES THROUGH:
• Insurance, Veteran’s or Social Security benefits,
• Worker’s Compensation
• Filing a civil lawsuit
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You have the right to know when the offender -
• is arrested
• first appears before a judge
• enters a guilty plea
• the date of trial
• the date of sentencing
• the possible sentence
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• You have the right to attend court. In certain cases, you may have the ability to speak at sentencing.
• You have the right to speak to the District Attorney about the case and possible outcomes.
• You have the right to ask for help with letting your employers know that you need time off of work due to the criminal case.
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• Victims of crime have the right to be protected from threats. Physical injury and/or other forms of intimidation. Orders of Protection can be issued by the Court to direct the offender to stay away.
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• This statement allows you to share your feelings about the crime, how it has affected you and your family and if the offender owes restitution to you. This statement is done prior to sentencing.
• A second Victim Impact Statement can be done at the time of the defendant being eligible for parole.
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New York State Victim Information and Notification Everyday, VINE, ( LINK TO VINE) can provide crime victims with information by phone, email, or text, about the status of the criminal offender. You can also be notified by the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision.
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• Restitution is payment for losses from injuries and damages that you suffered as a result of the crime. The person who committed the crime against you pays you restitution as part of their criminal sentence.
• To seek restitution, please reach out to our Victim Services Coordinator.
