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Victim Witness Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ASSISTANT-VICTIM-WITNESS PROGRAM OFFICE OF THE COMMONWEALTH'S ATTORNEY FOR CAMPBELL COUNTY The office is accepting applications for the position of Assistant Victim-Witness Advocate. The position is ...

Litigation Paralegal

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$26.50 - $31.43/hr

Coordinate with the victim/witness specialist to ensure adherence to current Departmental ... Prepare a closing sheet for the assigned attorney's signature * Assist support staff members by ...

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Victim Witness Assistant information

What is a victim witness assistant?

A Victim Witness Assistant is a professional who supports victims and witnesses of crimes throughout the legal process. They provide information about court procedures, help victims access services such as counseling or compensation, and act as a liaison between victims/witnesses and law enforcement or prosecutors. Their goal is to ensure that victims and witnesses are informed, supported, and able to participate fully in the justice process. Victim Witness Assistants play a vital role in reducing the trauma associated with involvement in the criminal justice system.

What does a victim witness assistant do?

A Victim Witness Assistant plays a crucial role in guiding victims and witnesses through the criminal justice system. They provide emotional support, keep individuals informed about case developments, and help them understand their rights and what to expect during court proceedings. Additionally, they often coordinate with law enforcement, attorneys, and social service agencies to ensure that victims and witnesses have access to necessary resources and accommodations, such as transportation or counseling. This collaborative approach helps reduce anxiety and confusion, making the legal process more accessible for those affected.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a victim witness assistant?

To thrive as a Victim Witness Assistant, you need a solid understanding of criminal justice or social work principles, typically supported by a relevant degree or experience in a legal or advocacy setting. Familiarity with case management software, court procedures, and confidential record-keeping systems is crucial. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to communicate effectively with vulnerable individuals are highly valued in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to provide meaningful support to victims and witnesses, ensuring their needs are met and their rights are protected throughout the legal process.

What is the difference between Victim Witness Assistant vs Victim Advocate?

AspectVictim Witness AssistantVictim Advocate
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require additional trainingHigh school diploma; often requires specialized training or certification in victim services
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, courts, law enforcement settingsNonprofit organizations, government agencies, legal settings
Employer & Industry UsageLaw enforcement, judicial systemLegal, social services, nonprofit sectors
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles within victim support servicesLearning about victim support roles and services

Victim Witness Assistants primarily support victims and witnesses within the criminal justice system, focusing on court procedures and providing logistical assistance. Victim Advocates often offer broader emotional support, crisis intervention, and advocacy services. While both roles serve victims, Victim Witness Assistants are more involved in court-related tasks, whereas Victim Advocates provide comprehensive emotional and social support.

What are the most commonly searched types of Victim Witness jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Victim Witness jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Victim Witness Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Victim Witness Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Victim Witness Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Victim Witness Assistant Coordinator

Roanoke County, VA

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Salary: $43,336.38 - $47,670.01 Annually
Location : Roanoke, VA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 201003700
Department: Commonwealth Attorney
Opening Date: 07/24/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Performs responsible paraprofessional and technical work providing victim and witness support services within the Office of the Commonwealth's Attorney. Assists victims and witnesses throughout the criminal justice process by providing information, coordinating services, explaining court procedures, and facilitating communication with prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, courts, and community organizations. Ensures compliance with applicable victim rights requirements, maintains confidential records, and performs related administrative support duties. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Commonwealth's Attorney or designee. Performs other duties as assigned.
Note: Full-Time Grant-Funded position in the Commonwealth Attorney's Office
*Hours Required for this position: 40 hours
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
~ Serves as the primary point of contact for assigned victims and witnesses by providing information, support, referrals, and assistance throughout the criminal justice process.
~ Explains court procedures, victim rights, protective orders, restitution, and available community resources in accordance with the Virginia Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act.
~ Coordinates communication between victims, witnesses, prosecutors, law enforcement agencies, courts, and service providers to ensure timely exchange of information.
~ Assists victims with completing compensation applications, restitution documentation, notification requests, and other required forms.
~ Provides courtroom orientation and prepares victims and witnesses for hearings, trials, and other court proceedings.
~ Maintains confidential case files, enters case information into computerized records systems, and prepares correspondence and required documentation.
~ Assists with scheduling meetings, interviews, and court appearances and provides notification of court dates, continuances, plea agreements, sentencing, and offender status as required.
~ Refers victims to appropriate community agencies for counseling, shelter, advocacy, financial assistance, and other support services.
~ Assists with outreach activities, educational materials, and public awareness events related to victim services.
~ Maintains professional relationships with judges, court personnel, law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and the public while ensuring confidentiality and professionalism.
Works collaboratively with others, especially prosecutors and other staff in the Commonwealth's Attorney's office, to accomplish program goals while demonstrating conscientiousness, integrity, fairness, respect, introspection and a positive attitude.
~ Accompanies victims and witnesses to court, conducts courtroom tours, and explains judicial proceedings.
~ Provides appropriate referrals to victims for crisis intervention, medical treatment, and related needs. Provides counseling and referrals to appropriate agencies for victims and witnesses
~ Disseminates victim's rights information to all victims in conformity with the Victim Rights Act.
~ Keeps victims and witnesses informed of significant developments in the investigation and adjudication of their cases.
~ Explains victim impact statements and the restitution process to victims.
~ Schedules appointments with victims and witnesses for trial preparation.
~ Provides positive support to victims, recognizing and addressing their needs for emotional support and information.
~ Prepares reports, produces and distributes written materials and maintains accurate records.
REQUIREMENTS/PREFERENCES
EducationRequired: Associates Degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology or related field.
Preferred: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Criminal Justice, Sociology, Psychology, or related field. ExperienceRequired:
One to three years of experience in human services, victim advocacy, legal support, or a closely related field.
Preferred:
Experience working within a court, Commonwealth's Attorney's Office, law enforcement agency, or victim services program.
Certifications/ LicensesMust have a valid Virginia Driver's License with a good record.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including clear communication, listening, adaptability/flexibility, problem solving/conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence. Conscientiousness, diligence, organization/time management, resilience and a positive attitude. General knowledge of the local and state criminal justice systems. General knowledge of case management and crisis intervention techniques. General knowledge of legal terminology, documents and instruments. Working knowledge of the physical and mental impact of victimization. Ability to communicate and establish strong and effective working relationships with victims. Ability to maintain records and reports. Skill in the use of standard office equipment, computer hardware and software.
Additional RequirementsSubject to a complete criminal background investigation with acceptable results. Must also be able to perform the job as described in the Physical and Environmental Demands section of this job description.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesNone.
OTHER INFORMATION
Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefit package that includes:
• Progressive Flexible Leave Plan with cash-in option
• Twelve paid holidays
• Short Term Disability Insurance
• Long Term Disability Insurance
• Health, Vision and Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts - Medical and Dependent Care
• Virginia Retirement System - Membership in VRS is automatic upon hire into a covered position. County contributes and employees pay their membership contribution.
• Deferred Compensation Plan with County Match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Credit Union Membership