THE RIGHT TO COURTROOM  ASSISTANCE
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1. Crime victims have the right to the confidentiality of their addresses and telephone numbers.

2. Courts can provide interpreter services, if needed.

3. The Victim-Witness Assistance Program can provided intercession letters to your employer or school explaining that a subpoenaed witness is required by law to appear in Court and testify.

4. Minor victims who testify are allowed an adult in the courtroom as a support person.

5. Closed preliminary hearings or the use of closed-circuit television are permissible in some cases, if you are a victim of a sexual offense. Your local Victim-Witness Assistance Program can tell you if you qualify for either of these services.

6. If you have been subpoenaed by the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and are a victim or witness traveling from out of state, the Victim-Witness Program can assist you in making travel arrangements, if necessary, and with paying travel expenses, including meals. Breakfast and lunch are reimbursable up to $8.00 and dinner can be reimbursed up to $20.00, per person. Even if you live within the state but are traveling more than 50 miles one way, you are entitled to travel reimbursement. Generally, travel by car can be reimbursed at  $.0325 per mile. In cases where out-of-state travel is deemed necessary, flight arrangements and hotel accommodations can be made at no cost to the subpoenaed victim/witness. In some cases, out-of-town victims and witnesses may also be eligible to be reimbursed for any meals they consume while here for court hearings, upon presentation of proper documentation. For details and limitations, contact your local Victim-Witness Assistance Program for more information.