When you have been the victim of a crime such as domestic violence, assault, sexual abuse, fraud, or another personal injury, the emotional and legal aftermath can be overwhelming. In Pennsylvania, the District Attorney prosecutes cases on behalf of the Commonwealth, not individual victims.
That is why many crime victims choose to work with their own attorney to protect their rights, safety, and long term recovery under the Pennsylvania Crime Victims Act and the Crime Victims Bill of Rights in 18 Pa.C.S. §11.201.
Pennsylvania law gives crime victims specific, enforceable rights, including:
- The right to receive information about available services
- Notification of significant court actions and proceedings
- The opportunity to offer victim impact statements at sentencing
- The right to seek restitution and compensation to restore your financial status
These protections were significantly strengthened by Act 77 of 2022, which gives victims the ability to enforce these rights in court if they are overlooked or violated.
5 Ways a Private Crime Victims Attorney Protects You
- Independent Review of the Case File: Your attorney provides an objective review of police reports, evidence logs, witness statements, and investigation notes. While prosecutors represent the state, a private attorney ensures no stone is left unturned. This helps identify incomplete witness interviews, unpreserved evidence, and potential weaknesses in the case before plea offers are accepted.
- Ensuring Your Voice is Heard in Court: It is common for victims to feel sidelined by the speed of the criminal justice system. A private attorney ensures you are heard at bail hearings, sentencing, Protection From Abuse (PFA) matters, and plea discussions, ensuring the outcome aligns with your safety and wishes.
- Restitution and Financial Recovery: Navigating restitution and insurance can be exhausting. Your lawyer ensures restitution orders are accurately documented and can assist with claims through the Pennsylvania Victims Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP), which can reimburse medical bills, counseling, loss of earnings, relocation costs, and other out of pocket losses.
- Protection, Safety, and Privacy: Safety planning and minimizing re-traumatization are paramount. A private attorney works with law enforcement to request tailored protective measures, such as specific no contact provisions or safety related conditions for bail and probation.
- Comprehensive Support and Coordination of Remedies: The criminal case is often only one part of the path to healing. A crime victims attorney coordinates both criminal and civil remedies, including working alongside your personal injury attorney.
Crime Victims Advocacy at Unruh Turner Burke & Frees
In Chester County and the surrounding Pennsylvania region, Unruh Turner Burke & Frees provides focused Crime Victims Advocacy led by attorney Daniel J. Yarnall.
Our team is committed to listening to your concerns, explaining your options clearly, and acting with your interests first. If you have been the victim of a crime, you do not have to face the justice system alone.
Contact Us for a Consultation
West Chester Office: 17 West Gay Street, West Chester, PA 19380 | (610) 692-1371
Phoenixville Office: 120 Gay Street, Phoenixville, PA 19460 | (610) 933-8069
Learn More: https://www.utbf.com/practices/crime-victims-advocacy/
Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney client relationship.
