A Guide to Support Victims and Families Navigating the Justice System

Do no harm is the motto and goal for those working with victims of crime. Understanding the impact of trauma and ways to support victims as they navigate the complex criminal and civil justice system is imperative. Trauma responsive measures have the potential to not only increase the likelihood of victims actively participating in the system but can jumpstart the path to healing. Creating trauma informed procedures will help staff recognize and respond to behaviors linked to trauma and will strengthen relationships.  The justice system from disclosure to verdict can be triggering, traumatizing and re- traumatizing for victims and families.  This session will provide actions to implement immediately to ensure that clients feel listened to and their experiences acknowledged.

Objectives:

• Understand how trauma may impact disclosure and cooperation with the justice system

• Learn ways to create/change or update environments to become trauma safe

• Create strategies and tools to enhance relationships with victims and families