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A reference, resource
and outreach unit for victim assistance
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The Coral Gables Victim/Witness Advocate Unit was established
to provide support for victims and witnesses of crime and to help them
understand their rights, gain access to resources and navigate the legal
system. Victims of all types of crimes, and especially those who have suffered
physical or emotional injury, can request services offered through this free
program at any time. The following are some of the basic services provided:
Crisis Intervention -
The Victim Advocate Unit provides support
to victim and witnesses at the scene if needed according to the circumstances
after victimization at the supervisors request. Follow-up support is also
provided to victims and/or their families.
Emergency Assistance -
In cases of domestic violence or abuse,
this unit can help make arrangements for shelters, locate immediate financial
assistance and aid in filing injunctions or taking other protective legal
measures.
Information and Referral -
The Victim/Witness Advocate Unit informs people about victims' rights
guaranteed by the Florida Constitution and the Victims Rights Act of 1988. The
program also provides referral to counseling, support groups, immigration
services, legal aid and numerous hotlines and victim assistance agencies.
Support through the Criminal Justice
System - The program
walks victims and witnesses through the legal process, from filing a police
report to remaining involved and informed through the criminal court process.
Support can include transportation to court appearances if required, assistance
in explaining absences or time off to employers or creditors, advocacy and
legal aid referrals.
Assistance through the Crime Victims
Compensation Program - The
Victim/Witness Advocate Unit reviews all crime reports in order to identify
victims eligible for financial compensation through the Office of the Attorney
General. After notifying eligible victims, the unit can assist victims in
filing claims, and periodically updates them regarding the status of the claim.
Elderly Services -
In cases of suspected elderly neglect or abuse, the Victim Advocate Unit can
contact protective services and serve as a liaison with other support agencies.
In such cases the coordinator also works with the City's Senior Services
Coordinator to access resources.
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Staff
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Kattia A. Castellanos
Victims Advocate Coordinator
With a background in psychology and education and a vast experience in issues of victimization,...
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Lilia Marcos
Victims Advocate Volunteer
Lilia Marcos worked in the insurance business for 20 years, since her retirement in 2004, she has ...
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Ricardo Valdes-Flores
Victims Advocate Volunteer
Ricardo Valdes-Flores was in the banking business for 35 years and is presently retired. He has ...
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Richard Wassall
Victims Advocate Volunteer
Richard Wassall completed his career in geology at the University of Illinois in 1974 He later joined ...
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24 Hour Hotlines
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The Children's Trust Helpline
221 |
Florida Coalition Against Sexual Violence Hotline
1-800-962-2873 |
National Domestic Violence Hotline (TTY)
1-800-799-7283
1-800-787-3224 |
Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence Hotline
1-800-500-1119 |
Elderly, Child and Disability Hotline
1-800-962-2873 |
TDD users Florida Relay Services
1-800-955-8771 |
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Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. If you do not want your e-mail address released in response to a public records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by phone or in writing.
Disclaimer 2008 © City of Coral Gables, Florida
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Victim Compensation Form - English
