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WHAT TO
EXPECT IN COURT
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Many individuals whose
abusers are charged with domestic violence, or who take out a protective order, have never been to court before. If
your case goes to trial, you can expect to appear in court at least
once. Sometimes, cases may be continued (postponed to a later date) or
there may be a plea agreement. If this happens, you may not
need to come to court. Your local Victim-Witness Assistance Program can
help you in preparing for court. They can send out informative materials
about domestic violence and the court system. They can also keep you
informed about your case’s progression through the criminal
justice process and answer any questions you may have. In York County or
Poquoson, you can reach someone with the Victim-Witness Assistance
Program at (757) 890-3402.
In general, however, here are some important tips on being prepared
for court:
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Take pictures of any injures as a result of a domestic assault,
including shortly after it happens, and some several days
later. Often, fresh
bruises do not show up immediately, but may darken later. Bring these photos to
court.
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Get copies of any medical records for injuries that were caused by
the assault, or let someone from Victim-Witness know you had to go to the
hospital.
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Let the police, Commonwealth’s Attorney, and/or Victim-Witness
know if the abuser violates a ‘no contact’ order, protective order, or
if you suspect the abuser may cause trouble on the day of court. The
Victim-Witness Program can arrange for you to have a secure
area in which to wait while awaiting your case to be
called
and, if necessary, an escort from the courtroom after court.
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Be prepared if the abuser tries to pressure you to drop the
charges. This does not happen in all cases, but may.
The York-Poquoson Commonwealth’s
Attorney’s Office has a ‘no drop’ policy on all charges.
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Speak to the prosecutor before court.
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