District Attorney
Victim-Witness Services

The District Attorney's Victim-Witness Program provides a variety of services for crime victims and witnesses to make their experience with the criminal justice system less traumatic and easier to understand. This involves assistance during the investigation and court proceedings, and assistance in filing claims for compensation through the California Victim Compensation Program.

Mission Statement

To provide comprehensive and coordinated services to all victims of violent crimes with fairness, dignity, and respect. To empower victims in their recovery from the effects of crime through crisis intervention and related support services.

Witnesses Subpoenaed for Court

If you receive a subpoena from the District Attorney to appear in court as a witness, you may respond to the subpoena via this website by clicking the Respond to a Subpoena link under the Resources menu. You may also call the phone number listed on the subpoena to confirm that you have received the subpoena and to see whether there have been any changes in the date and time of the court hearing. Hearings are often rescheduled or postponed, sometimes with very little advance notice. It is important that you verify your contact information when you email or call so the District Attorney can notify you of any change in the date or time you are needed in court.

It is also strongly suggested that you call the District Attorney's Office the afternoon before your court appearance at (209) 468-2400, to confirm that the hearing is proceeding as scheduled or search for your case online with the San Joaquin County Superior Court's online portal. When calling (209) 468-2400, you will need to provide the case name or case number from your subpoena and you will then be connected with the unit that issued the subpoena.

Witness Services

Witnesses of a crime are key in the prosecution of the case. As a witness of a crime, your truthful testimony is crucial to the outcome of the case. The criminal justice system can be overwhelming when you are a witness. Victim Advocates can assist with the following:

• Crisis Intervention
• Resource and referrals to outside agencies
• Orientation to criminal justice system
• Case status/disposition (upon request)
• Emergency assistance with shelter, food, clothing & transportation
• Witness Fees

Victim Services

Victims of crime often feel lost and frustrated during the course of the trial. Victim advocates serve as the liaison between the victims and law enforcement officials ensuring that each victim is treated with equality and respect. It is essential that victims, family friends, and relatives are included in the criminal justice process. Victim advocates can assist with the following:

• Crisis Intervention
• Resource and referrals to outside agencies
• Follow-up for emotional, personal, financial and employment problems resulting from the crime
• Emergency assistance in obtaining temporary shelter, clothing, food, transportation & medical care
• Filing for compensation through the California Victim Compensation Program
• Obtaining restraining orders
• Transportation
• Funeral arrangements
• Victim Impact Statements
• Orientation to the criminal justice system support through court appearances
• Information regarding the progress of the case & its disposition (upon request)
• Restitution assistance

Victim Mobile Crisis Unit

The mobile unit is a county-wide crime scene response to law enforcement. Its purpose is to reduce initial trauma to victims. Victim advocates may provide crisis intervention, support services through medical examinations, transportation, emergency housing/clothing, or assist with any questions during the investigation and the aftermath of the crime.