Victim Witness Program

The Nelson County Victim Witness Program helps ensure the comprehensive representation of crime victims and witnesses in criminal cases. The advocate serves as a liaison between the prosecutors, victims, and witnesses as developments occur in cases. Crime victims, when appropriate, are assisted with filing with the Virginia Victims Fund, making referrals to community services, and promote awareness of victim’s rights in the community. The Nelson County Victim Witness Program is funded by a grant administered by the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.

Crime Victim & Witness Rights:

As a victim/witness of crime, you have certain rights under the Virginia’s Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act. As a victim of a crime, you may be entitled to:

Information about:

  • Your rights as a victim/witness of a crime
  • The criminal justice process and your role as a victim/witness
  • Protective orders and other forms of protection
  • How to obtain a warrant if one has not been issued
  • Financial assistance, including the Virginia Victims Fund and restitution
  • Address and telephone confidentiality
  • Availability of separate waiting areas during court proceedings

Notification of:

  • Changes in court dates
  • Significant developments in a case such as possible plea offers
  • The defendant’s custody status and bond conditions if released from jail
  • Opportunity to prepare a written Victim Impact Statement prior to sentencing of a defendant

Assistance with:

  • Obtaining a protective order and other forms of protection
  • Beginning the claims process with the Virginia Victims Fund
  • Referrals to local resources
  • Understanding a defendants bond conditions
  • Receiving intercession services with your employer
  • Receiving the services of an interpreter

Community Service Referrals

Emergency 911
Sheriff’s Office 434-263-7050
Victim Witness Program 434-263-7014
Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office 434-263-7010
Juvenile & Domestic Relations 434-263-7030
General District Court 434-263-7040
YWCA 434-528-1041
SHE 434-293-8509
SARA (Sexual Assault Referral Agency) 434-977-7273
Region Ten Community Services 434-263-4889
Nelson County Dept of Social Services 434-263-7160
Unity in Community 434-277-8842
Nelson County Domestic Task Force 434-466-4769
VICTIM WITNESS PROGRAM

P.O. Box 447
Lovingston, VA 22949

Beth P. Cunningham
434-263-7014
434-263-7013 fax