Victims of crime often say they feel victimized all over again when they have to face their attacker during a criminal trial.
That’s why attorney generals’ offices hire victim advocates onto their staffs. These advocates are paid to help victims and their families navigate the legal system, help with referrals to services they may need and often to sit in court and hold a victim’s hand.
UCF approved a certificate program in Victim Advocacy late last year and has about 10 students enrolled in the program this semester. The students take several classes that help prepare them for working with victims of crime. Among the classes are Criminal Victimization in Society, Crisis Intervention, Sex Offenders and the Criminal Justice System, Women and Crime and Domestic Violence and the Criminal Justice System.