Witness Aid Services Unit - Victim Assistance Center
The Victim Assistance Center is a secure, comfortable, supportive environment where victims are introduced to the extensive services available to them through the District Attorney's Office. Victims also receive information about their rights in the criminal justice system and are afforded an opportunity to provide information important to the prosecution of their case. The Victims Assistance Center is located at 100 Centre Street, Room 231. The Center is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The staff can be reached at 212-335-9040.
The staff of the Victim Assistance Center provide the following services:
- Explain the criminal justice system and orient victims to their role in the prosecutorial process.
- Serve as a liaison between victims and Assistant District Attorneys, the New York Police Department, the court system, and other criminal justice agencies.
- Provide victims with case information and answer questions regarding the court process.
- Provide victims with essential information regarding other criminal justice agencies.
- Arrange transportation to court for victims and witnesses who are elderly, disabled, or injured.
- Prepare absence excusal letters for employers and schools.