Victims & Witnesses Assistance
If you are the victim of a crime or have been called as a witness in a criminal case, the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office is here to help guide you through the process.We understand that involvement in the criminal justice system can feel stressful, unfamiliar and overwhelming. This page is designed to help you better understand what to expect and connect you with available support services and resources.
Assistance
Victim Witness Assistance Unit
The Victim Witness Assistance Unit works closely with victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process by providing information, guidance, support and referrals to community resources and services.
The Victim Witness Assistance Unit may assist with:
Court and case information
Victim rights information
Notification requests
Referrals to counseling and support services
Domestic violence resources
Crisis intervention services
Restitution information
Questions related to subpoenas and court appearances
If you have questions or concerns related to your case, please contact the Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office.
- Obtain information about their case and current case status
- Participate in available programs and services
- Receive crisis intervention services and referrals
- Work with victim advocates and support organizations
- Request restitution
- Attend criminal justice proceedings
- Submit written statements and speak at sentencing or disposition
- Receive notification regarding inmate release, transfer, or escape
- Attend and testify at parole hearings
- Submit a Crime Victim Notification Request and Demand for Rights Form
Victims may also register with VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) to receive automated updates regarding an offender’s custody status and court-related notifications.
If you are summoned to court as a victim or witness, it is important to understand that court schedules can change and delays are common.
Please keep the following in mind:
- You should plan to be available for the entire day
- Some cases may continue into additional days
- Last-minute postponements or cancellations can occur
- Witnesses are often asked to wait until preliminary court matters are completed
You may also want to:
- Eat before arriving at court
- Bring necessary medications
- Arrive early to allow time for courthouse security screening
Please note that food, beverages, cameras, recording devices, weapons, sharp objects, electronic games, and large bags are not permitted inside the courthouse.
If you require accommodations or special arrangements related to your court appearance, please contact the State’s Attorney’s Office in advance.
- Arrive on time
- Dress professionally and appropriately
- Speak clearly and loudly when answering questions
- Listen carefully and answer only the question being asked
- Tell the truth and answer to the best of your memory
- Avoid exaggerating or guessing
- Stop speaking immediately if instructed by the judge
- Avoid distracting behavior during testimony
While prosecutors actively consult with victims throughout the process, a victim’s request alone does not automatically result in a case being dismissed.
If you are summoned to appear in court, you should not fail to appear unless you are specifically instructed otherwise.
The Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office has zero tolerance for attempts to intimidate victims, witnesses, or officers of the court.
If you have been threatened, intimidated, or pressured regarding a case, immediately contact:
- The law enforcement agency investigating the case
- The Assistant State’s Attorney handling your case
- The Charles County State’s Attorney’s Office
Emergency Notice
If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Resources
Domestic Violence & Crisis Resources
Center for Abused Persons
(24-Hour Hotline)
Additional Community Resources
Center for Children
Safe Schools Maryland Tip Line
Links
Downloadable Resources & Brochures
Access additional informational materials and helpful resources.
Anger Management Class
Bad Check Form
Center for Abused Persons Brochure (1 of 2)
Center for Abused Persons Brochure (2 of 2)
Center for Children Therapeutic Group Offerings (1 of 2)
Center for Children Therapeutic Group Offerings (2 of 2)
Maryland Criminal Injuries Compensation Board (CICB) Application
Maryland Criminal Injuries Compensation Board (CICB) Brochure
Junta de Compensación por Lesiones Criminales (CICB) Application
Junta de Compensación por Lesiones Criminales (CICB) Brochure
Restitution Request Form