City of Hampton - Commonwealth's Attorney - About the Victim-Witness Program

About the Victim-Witness Program

This program is designated to assist you with your involvement through the Criminal Justice System.

It is our goal to ensure that the rights of victims and witnesses are not overlooked.

The Hampton Victim-Witness Program has been in existence since 1984 and strives to provide you with quality service.

Understanding the Criminal Justice Process can often be very confusing. We want to help minimize the many frustrations that are associated with coming to court by providing you with as much information as possible.

Contact the Victim-Witness Program if...

you need to notify us of a change of address or telephone number
you need to have questions answered about court or any matter regarding your case
you need a referral to community service agencies, counseling or other needs
you need information concerning personal property being held by the police
you need information about the availability of restitution. Make sure that you document your losses and contact us
you need information on qualifying for Crime Victims´ Compensation for personal injuries
you need someone to speak to your employer about your time in court
you need assistance in filling out the Victim Impact Statement
you need information regarding Parole & Prisoner Release
you are a senior citizen or handicapped and need assistance getting to court

Other things you should know...

Continuances

Sometimes court proceedings cannot take place as scheduled. We will make every effort to notify you in advance but may not be successful. By calling the Victim-Witness Program the day before court, you can confirm whether you have to appear.

If You Are Threatened In Regard To Your Testimony...

If you are threatened by the defendant or anyone else in regard to your testimony, immediately call the local Police department and then contact this office at (757) 727-6442

Tips on Testifying

Close your eyes and try to picture the exact scene. Ask to see your written statement, if you made one.
The way you dress and conduct yourself will reflect on you. You want everything you do and say to work to your advantage. DO NOT WEAR SHORTS TO COURT.
Take a deep breath to relax yourself before you answer a question. Speak clearly. Answer to the best of your ability. If you do not know, say so.
Answer directly and in your own words. Do not volunteer or memorize information.
If one of the attorneys asks you a question to which there is an objection, do not answer until the judge says it is O. K. to answer.
If a defense attorney makes you feel uneasy, remember, he is just doing his job. You are not on trial. You are in control. The defendant is on trial.