An Overview of Victim Services Across Canada

Newfoundland and Labrador

Legislation

The Victim Services Program believes in the fundamental worth and equality of victims participating in the criminal justice process. The core values to which the Program subscribes are legislated in the Victims of Crime Services Act. Through this legislation a 15% Provincial Victim Fine Surcharge is attached to violations of Provincial Acts and Regulations (excluding parking). Through this surcharge as well as revenue, the Victim Services Program operates to provide direct victim services through regional offices and community level services.

Services

Victim Services is a dedicated justice service for victims which began in 1992. There are eleven professionally staffed regional offices throughout the province. Services are available for any crime victim but priorities for service include victims of violent crimes.

In October 2005, the Victim Services Program expanded to include services to child victims and witnesses who will be testifying in criminal justice proceedings.

Newfoundland and Labrador operate the Professional Services Program (counselling), the Victim Impact Statement Program, the Victim Services Assistants Program, the Victim Legal Fund, and the Victim Liaison Officers Program. Services are offered on a voluntary basis and available free of charge to those who feel they have been victimized regardless of whether a complaint has been made to the police or a charge has been laid. These services include: case and court information; court orientation; referrals; and counselling. Victim Services also helps with awareness and educational activities regarding the issues of victims/survivors.

Compensation

Nil

Victim Services: http://www.justice.gov.nl.ca/just/PUBLICPR/victimservices/victim_services.htm