Empowerment for Survivors: Advocacy Services at the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office

“The Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, since its creation in 1975, has been a source of justice, integrity, and service to our community. Nowhere is this truer than in our commitment as criminal justice advocates to stand up for crime victims; to ensure that their voices are heard, their rights are protected, and their healing journeys are supported by a caring society. Under the leadership of District Attorney Jessica Landon, a team of victim advocates-a service unique and unmatched in the Commonwealth-is committed to providing comprehensive services, resources, guidance and support for victims and witnesses of crime throughout the Northwestern District.”

What is victim advocacy?

“Victim advocacy is the provision of critical assistance, information, and resources to surviving witnesses of crime. The victim advocates of our office serve as empathetic intermediaries between victims, the criminal justice process, and community providers. They help victims understand court process and their rights, and introduce them to counseling, safety planning, and other forms of care. In the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office, victim advocacy is not just a service… it’s a restoration of dignity, safety, and hope.”

Holistic support services

“We know that each and every crime affects victims in unique ways. That’s why we offer a variety of support services designed around your needs. Our victim advocacy team is available to provide victims of crime with:

Crisis intervention and emotional support
Information about the criminal justice process
Regular updates regarding your case and court attendance
Assistance filing a victim compensation claim
Referrals to professional counseling and community agencies
Safety planning and protective order assistance
Restitution assistance and navigating financial hardship

All services are provided free of charge so the cost of justice is never out of reach.

Guidance through the justice system

Victims oftentimes feel fearful, apprehensive, and even unsure of what comes next as a case continues through the criminal justice system. Our Victim Advocates provide clarity and transparency every step of the way, starting from the initial reporting of a crime through investigation, prosecution, and sentencing. Advocates accompany victims to court hearings, answer questions, and make certain that victims’ voices are heard by prosecutors and judges. We view informed and empowered victims as an indispensable part of justice.

Specialized service programs for vulnerable populations

“With the understanding that more services may be required for certain groups, we have implemented special projects concentrating our advocacy efforts on children, seniors, domestic violence survivors, and people with disabilities. Our child advocacy unit works to provide a safe space and support for young victims. The elder justice project addresses the complex issues surrounding crimes committed against older individuals. Our office also collaborates with local shelters and community organizations to provide wraparound services to sexual assault and domestic abuse survivors so they each receive the specialized care they need.”

Education and outreach in the community

“Education is the vehicle for prevention and empowerment. The Northwestern District Attorney’s Office intermittently sponsors free legal workshops, support groups, and public forums discussing victims’ rights, safety planning, and the court system. Our goal is to provide residents with the tools and information they need to safeguard their families and peers. We also continue to publish educational materials and commentary through articles on our website to keep residents up to date and engaged.” For more information about our outreach efforts, visit our Community Outreach page.

How to access victim advocacy services

If you or someone you know has been victimized, getting help is the first step in healing. Our on-site victim advocacy team is available from 8am through 5pm, Monday through Friday. Remember – all of our services are confidential and free of charge. Direct contact by victims or family members, service providers, etc., to request assistance or information is always welcomed! Whether you need immediate crisis intervention services, information regarding your rights or referrals to existing community resources, the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office is here for you. Learn more about our services on our Victim Advocacy page.

Contact the Northwestern District Attorney’s Office

Your safety and wellbeing is of the utmost importance to us. In an effort to provide additional information about our services, available resources and community programs, please feel free to contact us:

Phone	(317) 532-9697
Email	[email protected]
Address	500 N Capitol Ave Ste 42, Indianapolis IN 46204
Website	https://northwesterndistrictattorney.org/

Please take a moment, whether you are in need of services or looking for a way to be involved in improving the safety and fairness of your community, and turn in that request today. For more ways to connect, visit our Contact Us page.