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WHAT TO EXPECT IN COURT
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Many individuals who become the target of a stalker have never been to court
before. If your case goes to trial, you can expect to appear in court at
least once. If you also petition for a protective order, you can expect
to appear in court at least one additional time. 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 stalking 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:
1) Bring any documentation of incidents, including any letters,
cards, or other items. You can also bring your any notes you have made
about specific incidents. You will not be allowed to read them
in court, but they often can be used to refresh your memory on
details, such as dates.
2) Let the police, Commonwealth’s Attorney, and/or Victim-Witness
know if the stalker violates a ‘no contact’ order, protective order,
or if you suspect the stalker 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
or, if necessary, an escort from the courtroom after the case
is heard.
3) Be prepared if the stalker 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. You can also notify the police and/or the
Victim-Witness Program if the stalker tries to intimidate or
threaten you into dropping the charges.
4) Speak to the prosecutor before court.
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