Information
The Crisis and Trauma Factsheet
Have you been the victim of a crime or trauma (this includes being a witness or family member of a victim)? Traumatic events like this can affect people in different ways. Here's a summary of some common reactions to trauma, and some helpful ways to cope.
Homicide Research
Exploring the needs of families of homicide victims.
Research exploring the needs of families of homicide victims. Completed in 2011 this research covers the experiences and support needs of New Zealand families after a homicide.
Victim Impact Statements
The legal processes involved in proving the innocence or guilt of an alleged offender are not always focused on the impacts the crime has had on the victim(s). A Victim Impact Statement is a court document that helps address this.
Family Group Conference
The family group conference is your chance to have your say. This is where the young person, their family and others come together to talk about the offending and what can be done to put things right. You will be able to talk about how the crime affected you, physically, emotionally and financially. Your thoughts can be presented verbally or in a written Victim Impact Statement.
The Courts
The justice system can be a complex and confusing place for victims of crime. It's important to understand that the criminal justice system – specifically that the courts are part of a system that's concerned primarily with following a process that does not always translate into what the victim might view as "justice".
Restorative Justice
Restorative Justice is a term used to describe a range of processes that bring victims, offenders and sometimes communities together to help victims to decide on a response to a particular crime. It's a way of putting victims' needs at the centre of the criminal justice system and finding positive solutions to crime by encouraging offenders to face up to their actions.
