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Frequently Asked Questions

We are here to help. Please explore the FAQs below. If you would like more information about anything you see here or wish to speak with a crisis counselor immediately, please call our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983. 

  • What are my rights as a victim?
    In Pennsylvania, Victim Rights are the rights given to a victim or significant other impacted by a crime. (Visit Your Detailed Rights as a Crime Victim to learn more.)
  • What can a VSC advocate do for me?
    A VSC advocate can provide you with a general understanding of how the criminal justice process works. They are not lawyers but they are specially trained to help you understand legal proceedings before, during and after a case has resolved. Advocates can talk to you about reporting to the police and can accompany you to the police station. They can also provide support and accompany you to criminal court proceedings for events like preliminary hearings, trial, and parole board hearings. Advocates can assist with filing for Victims Compensation for crime-related expenses.
  • What if I do not want to make a police report?
    There are many reasons why someone may choose not to make a police report. Options to consider instead of reporting to police are: Calling our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to safety plan. Filing a civil protection order (several types of orders in Montgomery County include: Protection from Abuse order, Sexual Violence Protection order, and Protection from Intimidation order). Filling out a defiant trespass order. Notifying the Office of Children and Youth by making a Child-Line report (by phone or online, anonymous reporting available). Talking to a trusted adult.
  • What can I expect when I go to the police?
    In most cases you will initially speak with a person at the front desk. Some smaller police deptartments may have a notice on a wall nearby with instructions on who to call to reach an officer. Next, an available officer will likely meet with you in a private room. Officers will ask general questions about the crime such as who, what, and where. This can take about an hour to complete. Officers ask these questions to get information necessary to determine if the investigation should continue. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I have to complete a police interview alone?
    No, you may call our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to request a VSC advocate to accompany you to any police department in Montgomery County. If you need assistance outside of the county, you may call us and request another local resource.
  • Which police department do I go to if I wanted to make a report?
    Normally, you visit the police department in the same area where the incident happened. (Example: if it happened in City A but you live in City B, you would report to the police department that serves City A). Please call our hotline for more guidance at 1-888-521-0983.
  • The crime happened in the past, can I still make a police report?"
    Yes, you can make a police report regardless of how much time has passed.
  • What happens after a police report is made?
    Typically, in Pennsylvania, after the reporting officer/detective has obtained the initial information you provided, the police may further investigate. You may be asked to return to the police for a formal statement which is a more detailed interview with an officer or detective. Police may seek additional interviews with others, request surveillance, or await lab results. After any investigation is completed it is submitted to the District Attorney’s (DA's) office. It is up to the DA’s office to decide if there will be criminal charges filed. If the DA’s office decides to not charge, the case is closed and no criminal charges are filed. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • My criminal case was closed. What are my options?
    If the DA’s office decides not to prosecute, you may have options including filing for a restraining order, filing for a no contact order, or consulting a lawyer of your own choosing about possible civil legal claims you may have. If you would like to learn more about any of these options please call our hotline at 888-521-0983.
  • An arrest has been made. Will someone contact me when they get out?
    Yes, however you must visit PA SAVIN website or call them at (866) 972-7284 to register. For those arrested with longer state sentences you may call the Office of Victim Advocate at 1-800-563-6399.
  • I am worried about my immigration status. Can I make a police report?
    Normally, when making a police report, their main priority is public safety and focused on the crime/incident details. You do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary. Visit the ACLU website for more information about immigration and rights.
  • What do I do at the police station if English is not my first or preferred language?
    You have the right to meaningful language access for free. You may request an interpreter at the police department. Police departments, hospitals, and courts have language line/telephonic interpreter access. VSC also utilizes language access. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations vary. 如果您需要帮助但不会英语,请致电888-521-0983,我们将回答您的任何问题。 Wenn Sie Hilfe benötigen, aber kein Englisch sprechen, rufen Sie bitte unsere Hotline unter 888-521-0983 an, um alle Ihre Fragen zu beantworten. Se hai bisogno di assistenza ma non parli inglese, chiama il nostro numero verde 888-521-0983 e risponderemo a tutte le tue domande. 도움이 필요하지만 영어로 대화하기 어려운 분은 상담전화 888-521-0983으로 연락 주시면 답변해 드리겠습니다. Если вам нужна помощь, но вы не говорите по-английски, позвоните на нашу горячую линию 888-521-0983, чтобы получить ответы на все вопросы. Якщо вам потрібна допомога, але ви не володієте англійською мовою, зателефонуйте на нашу гарячу лінію за номером 888-521-0983, щоб отримати відповідь на будь-які запитання.
  • What can I do if I have bills or expenses as a result of the crime I endured?
    Victim’s Compensation is a program that offers crime victim’s financial assistance for a variety of expenses as a result of a crime. Some expenses that may qualify are: medical bills, counseling expenses, medication, relocation, loss wages, funeral expenses, stolen cash, or crime scene clean up. VSC advocates can answer any other eligibility questions and assist in completing an application for the program. Please call our hotline to learn more: 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I need a lawyer if I am a victim/survivor of a crime?
    No, you do not need a lawyer. For criminal matters, an assistant district attorney is appointed to represent the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Should a victim of crime want to pursue civil charges, they will need to hire their own attorney. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary.
  • How do I know if/when I need to go to court?
    You will receive a subpoena if you need to attend a court proceeding. If you are uncertain about this, you can request the assistance of a VSC advocate who can also accompany you to those proceedings. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • What is a victim impact statement?
    It is a written statement to the judge that you have the right to submit at the time of a sentencing hearing. An impact statement outlines the impact the crime has had on you or your loved one. You also are able to give in-person victim testimony during the sentencing as well. This informs the judge of the emotional, mental, physical, and financial implications the crime has had on you. Victim advocates are available to assist you with your victim impact statement. Please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983 for more information.
  • What is restitution?
    Restitution is money ordered by the judge that the defendant is to pay back to you for expenses you had as a result of the crime. For example: medical bills, stolen cash or property and/or insurance deductibles. The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for giving you a form about these kinds of expenses before a sentencing hearing in your case. This form must be returned before the sentencing date. It is typically ordered when the defendant is sentenced. Victim advocates are available to assist you in filling out this paperwork. For more information please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • What are my rights as a victim?
    In Pennsylvania, Victim Rights are the rights given to a victim or significant other impacted by a crime. (Visit Your Detailed Rights as a Crime Victim to learn more.)
  • What can a VSC advocate do for me?
    A VSC advocate can provide you with a general understanding of how the criminal justice process works. They are not lawyers but they are specially trained to help you understand legal proceedings before, during and after a case has resolved. Advocates can talk to you about reporting to the police and can accompany you to the police station. They can also provide support and accompany you to criminal court proceedings for events like preliminary hearings, trial, and parole board hearings. Advocates can assist with filing for Victims Compensation for crime-related expenses.
  • What if I do not want to make a police report?
    There are many reasons why someone may choose not to make a police report. Options to consider instead of reporting to police are: Calling our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to safety plan. Filing a civil protection order (several types of orders in Montgomery County include: Protection from Abuse order, Sexual Violence Protection order, and Protection from Intimidation order). Filling out a defiant trespass order. Notifying the Office of Children and Youth by making a Child-Line report (by phone or online, anonymous reporting available). Talking to a trusted adult.
  • What can I expect when I go to the police?
    In most cases you will initially speak with a person at the front desk. Some smaller police deptartments may have a notice on a wall nearby with instructions on who to call to reach an officer. Next, an available officer will likely meet with you in a private room. Officers will ask general questions about the crime such as who, what, and where. This can take about an hour to complete. Officers ask these questions to get information necessary to determine if the investigation should continue. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I have to complete a police interview alone?
    No, you may call our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to request a VSC advocate to accompany you to any police department in Montgomery County. If you need assistance outside of the county, you may call us and request another local resource.
  • Which police department do I go to if I wanted to make a report?
    Normally, you visit the police department in the same area where the incident happened. (Example: if it happened in City A but you live in City B, you would report to the police department that serves City A). Please call our hotline for more guidance at 1-888-521-0983.
  • The crime happened in the past, can I still make a police report?"
    Yes, you can make a police report regardless of how much time has passed.
  • What happens after a police report is made?
    Typically, in Pennsylvania, after the reporting officer/detective has obtained the initial information you provided, the police may further investigate. You may be asked to return to the police for a formal statement which is a more detailed interview with an officer or detective. Police may seek additional interviews with others, request surveillance, or await lab results. After any investigation is completed it is submitted to the District Attorney’s (DA's) office. It is up to the DA’s office to decide if there will be criminal charges filed. If the DA’s office decides to not charge, the case is closed and no criminal charges are filed. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • My criminal case was closed. What are my options?
    If the DA’s office decides not to prosecute, you may have options including filing for a restraining order, filing for a no contact order, or consulting a lawyer of your own choosing about possible civil legal claims you may have. If you would like to learn more about any of these options please call our hotline at 888-521-0983.
  • An arrest has been made. Will someone contact me when they get out?
    Yes, however you must visit PA SAVIN website or call them at (866) 972-7284 to register. For those arrested with longer state sentences you may call the Office of Victim Advocate at 1-800-563-6399.
  • I am worried about my immigration status. Can I make a police report?
    Normally, when making a police report, their main priority is public safety and focused on the crime/incident details. You do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary. Visit the ACLU website for more information about immigration and rights.
  • What do I do at the police station if English is not my first or preferred language?
    You have the right to meaningful language access for free. You may request an interpreter at the police department. Police departments, hospitals, and courts have language line/telephonic interpreter access. VSC also utilizes language access. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations vary. 如果您需要帮助但不会英语,请致电888-521-0983,我们将回答您的任何问题。 Wenn Sie Hilfe benötigen, aber kein Englisch sprechen, rufen Sie bitte unsere Hotline unter 888-521-0983 an, um alle Ihre Fragen zu beantworten. Se hai bisogno di assistenza ma non parli inglese, chiama il nostro numero verde 888-521-0983 e risponderemo a tutte le tue domande. 도움이 필요하지만 영어로 대화하기 어려운 분은 상담전화 888-521-0983으로 연락 주시면 답변해 드리겠습니다. Если вам нужна помощь, но вы не говорите по-английски, позвоните на нашу горячую линию 888-521-0983, чтобы получить ответы на все вопросы. Якщо вам потрібна допомога, але ви не володієте англійською мовою, зателефонуйте на нашу гарячу лінію за номером 888-521-0983, щоб отримати відповідь на будь-які запитання.
  • What can I do if I have bills or expenses as a result of the crime I endured?
    Victim’s Compensation is a program that offers crime victim’s financial assistance for a variety of expenses as a result of a crime. Some expenses that may qualify are: medical bills, counseling expenses, medication, relocation, loss wages, funeral expenses, stolen cash, or crime scene clean up. VSC advocates can answer any other eligibility questions and assist in completing an application for the program. Please call our hotline to learn more: 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I need a lawyer if I am a victim/survivor of a crime?
    No, you do not need a lawyer. For criminal matters, an assistant district attorney is appointed to represent the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Should a victim of crime want to pursue civil charges, they will need to hire their own attorney. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary.
  • How do I know if/when I need to go to court?
    You will receive a subpoena if you need to attend a court proceeding. If you are uncertain about this, you can request the assistance of a VSC advocate who can also accompany you to those proceedings. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • What is a victim impact statement?
    It is a written statement to the judge that you have the right to submit at the time of a sentencing hearing. An impact statement outlines the impact the crime has had on you or your loved one. You also are able to give in-person victim testimony during the sentencing as well. This informs the judge of the emotional, mental, physical, and financial implications the crime has had on you. Victim advocates are available to assist you with your victim impact statement. Please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983 for more information.
  • What is restitution?
    Restitution is money ordered by the judge that the defendant is to pay back to you for expenses you had as a result of the crime. For example: medical bills, stolen cash or property and/or insurance deductibles. The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for giving you a form about these kinds of expenses before a sentencing hearing in your case. This form must be returned before the sentencing date. It is typically ordered when the defendant is sentenced. Victim advocates are available to assist you in filling out this paperwork. For more information please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • What are my rights as a victim?
    In Pennsylvania, Victim Rights are the rights given to a victim or significant other impacted by a crime. (Visit Your Detailed Rights as a Crime Victim to learn more.)
  • What can a VSC advocate do for me?
    A VSC advocate can provide you with a general understanding of how the criminal justice process works. They are not lawyers but they are specially trained to help you understand legal proceedings before, during and after a case has resolved. Advocates can talk to you about reporting to the police and can accompany you to the police station. They can also provide support and accompany you to criminal court proceedings for events like preliminary hearings, trial, and parole board hearings. Advocates can assist with filing for Victims Compensation for crime-related expenses.
  • What if I do not want to make a police report?
    There are many reasons why someone may choose not to make a police report. Options to consider instead of reporting to police are: Calling our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to safety plan. Filing a civil protection order (several types of orders in Montgomery County include: Protection from Abuse order, Sexual Violence Protection order, and Protection from Intimidation order). Filling out a defiant trespass order. Notifying the Office of Children and Youth by making a Child-Line report (by phone or online, anonymous reporting available). Talking to a trusted adult.
  • What can I expect when I go to the police?
    In most cases you will initially speak with a person at the front desk. Some smaller police deptartments may have a notice on a wall nearby with instructions on who to call to reach an officer. Next, an available officer will likely meet with you in a private room. Officers will ask general questions about the crime such as who, what, and where. This can take about an hour to complete. Officers ask these questions to get information necessary to determine if the investigation should continue. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I have to complete a police interview alone?
    No, you may call our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to request a VSC advocate to accompany you to any police department in Montgomery County. If you need assistance outside of the county, you may call us and request another local resource.
  • Which police department do I go to if I wanted to make a report?
    Normally, you visit the police department in the same area where the incident happened. (Example: if it happened in City A but you live in City B, you would report to the police department that serves City A). Please call our hotline for more guidance at 1-888-521-0983.
  • The crime happened in the past, can I still make a police report?"
    Yes, you can make a police report regardless of how much time has passed.
  • What happens after a police report is made?
    Typically, in Pennsylvania, after the reporting officer/detective has obtained the initial information you provided, the police may further investigate. You may be asked to return to the police for a formal statement which is a more detailed interview with an officer or detective. Police may seek additional interviews with others, request surveillance, or await lab results. After any investigation is completed it is submitted to the District Attorney’s (DA's) office. It is up to the DA’s office to decide if there will be criminal charges filed. If the DA’s office decides to not charge, the case is closed and no criminal charges are filed. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • My criminal case was closed. What are my options?
    If the DA’s office decides not to prosecute, you may have options including filing for a restraining order, filing for a no contact order, or consulting a lawyer of your own choosing about possible civil legal claims you may have. If you would like to learn more about any of these options please call our hotline at 888-521-0983.
  • An arrest has been made. Will someone contact me when they get out?
    Yes, however you must visit PA SAVIN website or call them at (866) 972-7284 to register. For those arrested with longer state sentences you may call the Office of Victim Advocate at 1-800-563-6399.
  • I am worried about my immigration status. Can I make a police report?
    Normally, when making a police report, their main priority is public safety and focused on the crime/incident details. You do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary. Visit the ACLU website for more information about immigration and rights.
  • What do I do at the police station if English is not my first or preferred language?
    You have the right to meaningful language access for free. You may request an interpreter at the police department. Police departments, hospitals, and courts have language line/telephonic interpreter access. VSC also utilizes language access. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations vary. 如果您需要帮助但不会英语,请致电888-521-0983,我们将回答您的任何问题。 Wenn Sie Hilfe benötigen, aber kein Englisch sprechen, rufen Sie bitte unsere Hotline unter 888-521-0983 an, um alle Ihre Fragen zu beantworten. Se hai bisogno di assistenza ma non parli inglese, chiama il nostro numero verde 888-521-0983 e risponderemo a tutte le tue domande. 도움이 필요하지만 영어로 대화하기 어려운 분은 상담전화 888-521-0983으로 연락 주시면 답변해 드리겠습니다. Если вам нужна помощь, но вы не говорите по-английски, позвоните на нашу горячую линию 888-521-0983, чтобы получить ответы на все вопросы. Якщо вам потрібна допомога, але ви не володієте англійською мовою, зателефонуйте на нашу гарячу лінію за номером 888-521-0983, щоб отримати відповідь на будь-які запитання.
  • What can I do if I have bills or expenses as a result of the crime I endured?
    Victim’s Compensation is a program that offers crime victim’s financial assistance for a variety of expenses as a result of a crime. Some expenses that may qualify are: medical bills, counseling expenses, medication, relocation, loss wages, funeral expenses, stolen cash, or crime scene clean up. VSC advocates can answer any other eligibility questions and assist in completing an application for the program. Please call our hotline to learn more: 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I need a lawyer if I am a victim/survivor of a crime?
    No, you do not need a lawyer. For criminal matters, an assistant district attorney is appointed to represent the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Should a victim of crime want to pursue civil charges, they will need to hire their own attorney. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary.
  • How do I know if/when I need to go to court?
    You will receive a subpoena if you need to attend a court proceeding. If you are uncertain about this, you can request the assistance of a VSC advocate who can also accompany you to those proceedings. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • What is a victim impact statement?
    It is a written statement to the judge that you have the right to submit at the time of a sentencing hearing. An impact statement outlines the impact the crime has had on you or your loved one. You also are able to give in-person victim testimony during the sentencing as well. This informs the judge of the emotional, mental, physical, and financial implications the crime has had on you. Victim advocates are available to assist you with your victim impact statement. Please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983 for more information.
  • What is restitution?
    Restitution is money ordered by the judge that the defendant is to pay back to you for expenses you had as a result of the crime. For example: medical bills, stolen cash or property and/or insurance deductibles. The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for giving you a form about these kinds of expenses before a sentencing hearing in your case. This form must be returned before the sentencing date. It is typically ordered when the defendant is sentenced. Victim advocates are available to assist you in filling out this paperwork. For more information please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • What are my rights as a victim?
    In Pennsylvania, Victim Rights are the rights given to a victim or significant other impacted by a crime. (Visit Your Detailed Rights as a Crime Victim to learn more.)
  • What can a VSC advocate do for me?
    A VSC advocate can provide you with a general understanding of how the criminal justice process works. They are not lawyers but they are specially trained to help you understand legal proceedings before, during and after a case has resolved. Advocates can talk to you about reporting to the police and can accompany you to the police station. They can also provide support and accompany you to criminal court proceedings for events like preliminary hearings, trial, and parole board hearings. Advocates can assist with filing for Victims Compensation for crime-related expenses.
  • What if I do not want to make a police report?
    There are many reasons why someone may choose not to make a police report. Options to consider instead of reporting to police are: Calling our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to safety plan. Filing a civil protection order (several types of orders in Montgomery County include: Protection from Abuse order, Sexual Violence Protection order, and Protection from Intimidation order). Filling out a defiant trespass order. Notifying the Office of Children and Youth by making a Child-Line report (by phone or online, anonymous reporting available). Talking to a trusted adult.
  • What can I expect when I go to the police?
    In most cases you will initially speak with a person at the front desk. Some smaller police deptartments may have a notice on a wall nearby with instructions on who to call to reach an officer. Next, an available officer will likely meet with you in a private room. Officers will ask general questions about the crime such as who, what, and where. This can take about an hour to complete. Officers ask these questions to get information necessary to determine if the investigation should continue. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I have to complete a police interview alone?
    No, you may call our 24-hour hotline at 1-888-521-0983 to request a VSC advocate to accompany you to any police department in Montgomery County. If you need assistance outside of the county, you may call us and request another local resource.
  • Which police department do I go to if I wanted to make a report?
    Normally, you visit the police department in the same area where the incident happened. (Example: if it happened in City A but you live in City B, you would report to the police department that serves City A). Please call our hotline for more guidance at 1-888-521-0983.
  • The crime happened in the past, can I still make a police report?"
    Yes, you can make a police report regardless of how much time has passed.
  • What happens after a police report is made?
    Typically, in Pennsylvania, after the reporting officer/detective has obtained the initial information you provided, the police may further investigate. You may be asked to return to the police for a formal statement which is a more detailed interview with an officer or detective. Police may seek additional interviews with others, request surveillance, or await lab results. After any investigation is completed it is submitted to the District Attorney’s (DA's) office. It is up to the DA’s office to decide if there will be criminal charges filed. If the DA’s office decides to not charge, the case is closed and no criminal charges are filed. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • My criminal case was closed. What are my options?
    If the DA’s office decides not to prosecute, you may have options including filing for a restraining order, filing for a no contact order, or consulting a lawyer of your own choosing about possible civil legal claims you may have. If you would like to learn more about any of these options please call our hotline at 888-521-0983.
  • An arrest has been made. Will someone contact me when they get out?
    Yes, however you must visit PA SAVIN website or call them at (866) 972-7284 to register. For those arrested with longer state sentences you may call the Office of Victim Advocate at 1-800-563-6399.
  • I am worried about my immigration status. Can I make a police report?
    Normally, when making a police report, their main priority is public safety and focused on the crime/incident details. You do not have to discuss your immigration or citizenship status with police. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary. Visit the ACLU website for more information about immigration and rights.
  • What do I do at the police station if English is not my first or preferred language?
    You have the right to meaningful language access for free. You may request an interpreter at the police department. Police departments, hospitals, and courts have language line/telephonic interpreter access. VSC also utilizes language access. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations vary. 如果您需要帮助但不会英语,请致电888-521-0983,我们将回答您的任何问题。 Wenn Sie Hilfe benötigen, aber kein Englisch sprechen, rufen Sie bitte unsere Hotline unter 888-521-0983 an, um alle Ihre Fragen zu beantworten. Se hai bisogno di assistenza ma non parli inglese, chiama il nostro numero verde 888-521-0983 e risponderemo a tutte le tue domande. 도움이 필요하지만 영어로 대화하기 어려운 분은 상담전화 888-521-0983으로 연락 주시면 답변해 드리겠습니다. Если вам нужна помощь, но вы не говорите по-английски, позвоните на нашу горячую линию 888-521-0983, чтобы получить ответы на все вопросы. Якщо вам потрібна допомога, але ви не володієте англійською мовою, зателефонуйте на нашу гарячу лінію за номером 888-521-0983, щоб отримати відповідь на будь-які запитання.
  • What can I do if I have bills or expenses as a result of the crime I endured?
    Victim’s Compensation is a program that offers crime victim’s financial assistance for a variety of expenses as a result of a crime. Some expenses that may qualify are: medical bills, counseling expenses, medication, relocation, loss wages, funeral expenses, stolen cash, or crime scene clean up. VSC advocates can answer any other eligibility questions and assist in completing an application for the program. Please call our hotline to learn more: 1-888-521-0983.
  • Do I need a lawyer if I am a victim/survivor of a crime?
    No, you do not need a lawyer. For criminal matters, an assistant district attorney is appointed to represent the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Should a victim of crime want to pursue civil charges, they will need to hire their own attorney. For more information please contact our hotline, as situations may vary.
  • How do I know if/when I need to go to court?
    You will receive a subpoena if you need to attend a court proceeding. If you are uncertain about this, you can request the assistance of a VSC advocate who can also accompany you to those proceedings. For more information please contact our hotline at 1-888-521-0983, as situations may vary.
  • What is a victim impact statement?
    It is a written statement to the judge that you have the right to submit at the time of a sentencing hearing. An impact statement outlines the impact the crime has had on you or your loved one. You also are able to give in-person victim testimony during the sentencing as well. This informs the judge of the emotional, mental, physical, and financial implications the crime has had on you. Victim advocates are available to assist you with your victim impact statement. Please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983 for more information.
  • What is restitution?
    Restitution is money ordered by the judge that the defendant is to pay back to you for expenses you had as a result of the crime. For example: medical bills, stolen cash or property and/or insurance deductibles. The District Attorney’s Office is responsible for giving you a form about these kinds of expenses before a sentencing hearing in your case. This form must be returned before the sentencing date. It is typically ordered when the defendant is sentenced. Victim advocates are available to assist you in filling out this paperwork. For more information please call our hotline at 1-888-521-0983.

Hotline: 888-521-0983

Office: 610-277-0932

Fax: 610-277-6386

Email: vscmontcopa@vscmontcopa.org

325 Swede St., 2nd Floor 

Norristown, PA 19401

EIN: 23-1967228

Our mission is to provide advocacy and counseling for all who have been affected by sexual violence and other crimes against the person and to promote prevention and awareness in the community through education. 

Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, Inc., has a 24-hour hotline number: 1-888-521-0983. If you require an interpreter when calling our hotline, please state your primary/native language and wait momentarily while we connect you with a staff member and an interpreter for further assistance. Thank you.

El Centro de Servicios para las Víctimas del Condado de Montgomery en Pennsylvania cuenta con una línea directa las 24 horas: 1-888-521-0983. Si necesita un intérprete cuando llama a nuestra línea directa, indique su idioma primario/nativo y espere un momento para que un integrante de nuestro equipo y un intérprete se conecten para ofrecer asistencia adicional. Gracias.

خط الاتصال الساخن المتاح على مدار الساعة لمركز خدمات الضحايا في مقاطعة مونتغمري بولاية بنسلفانيا (Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, PA): 1-888-521-0983. إذا كنت بحاجة لمترجم فوري أثناء اتصالك بالخط الساخن، يرجى تحديد لغتك الرئيسية/الأم وانتظر قليلًا إلى أن يتم ربطك بأحد موظفي الطاقم والمترجم الفوري لتقديم المساعدة اللازمة. شكرًا لك

PA Montgomery 카운티의 피해자 서비스 센터에는 24시간 핫라인 번호가 있습니다: 1-888-521-0983. 저희 핫라인에 전화 시 통역사가 필요하신 경우, 본인의 주언어/모국어를 알려주시고 직원과 통역사가 연결될 때까지 기다린 후 추가 도움을 받으세요. 감사합니다.

Круглосуточный номер горячей линии Центра помощи жертвам насилия в Montgomery County, PA: 1-888-521-0983. Если вам нужен переводчик при звонке на нашу горячую линию, укажите свой основной/родной язык и подождите некоторое время, пока сотрудник и переводчик не подключатся для оказания дополнительной помощи. Спасибо.

Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, PA 的 24 小时热线电话是:1-888-521-0983。如果您在拨打我们的热线时需要译员,请说明您的首选语言/母语,并稍等片刻,直到与工作人员和译员接通以获取进一步帮助。谢谢。

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© 2025 by Victim Services Center of Montgomery County, Inc. 

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