Free Victim Advocacy & Court Support in the Lehigh Valley
A Dedicated Ally by Your Side
Navigating the criminal justice system after experiencing a crime can feel incredibly overwhelming, intimidating, and deeply tiring. It is a drawn-out process that can often feel institutional and cold.
At the Crime Victims Council, our trained victim advocates are here to ensure you don't have to carry that weight by yourself. We provide free, confidential support, accompaniment, and advocacy throughout Lehigh and Northampton counties, standing right beside you every step of the way.
What a Victim Advocate Does For You
An advocate acts as your liaison, your support system, and your anchor. We bridge the gap between you and the legal system by:
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Opening Communication: We aid in providing clear information about your case and help open and maintain lines of communication with law enforcement and attorneys.
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Speaking on Your Behalf: When the process feels like too much to carry, you have the comfort of knowing an advocate who is deeply well-informed about the criminal justice system can speak on your behalf and champion your voice.
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Providing Accompaniment: From the initial police report and investigative interviews through court hearings, trials, and sentencing, we sit with you so you always have a comforting presence nearby.
Redefining a "Win" in the Legal System
In the courts, wins are often measured strictly by verdicts and legal outcomes. At CVC, our advocates measure success differently.
The legal system can feel cold, but our advocates aim to be the hand warmers that make the courthouse and the criminal justice process a little less intimidating. Successfully allowing an individual to feel heard, seen, understood, safe, and connected is always a win. Progress is found in the moments where you feel empowered and protected while reclaiming your voice.
Understanding Your Rights and Case Notifications
As a victim of crime in Pennsylvania, you have specific, legally protected rights. Our team is here to help you understand those rights and ensure they are respected by the system.
Statewide Victim Notification Systems (PA SAVIN)
You have the right to be notified if an offender is released, transferred, or escapes from a county jail or state correctional facility.
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County Sentences: To sign up for automated notifications regarding county jail status, you must register with the Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification System (PA SAVIN). You can register online or call 1-866-972-7284.
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State Sentences (24+ Months): If the offender is serving a state sentence, you have the right to additional services and private notifications not available to the general public. To receive these, you must register directly with the Office of the Victim Advocate (OVA).
Our advocates can assist you with completing and submitting these registrations to ensure you get the updates you need.
Connect with an Advocate Today
Our victim advocacy and court accompaniment services are completely free, confidential, and available to anyone navigating the justice system in Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and the surrounding Lehigh Valley.
If you have questions about your case, need someone to accompany you to an upcoming hearing, or just need to know your rights, we are here.
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Call our Allentown Office: 610-437-6610
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Call our 24-Hour Immediate Crisis Hotline: 610-437-6611