Legal Help

Navigating the legal system after experiencing or being affected by a crime can be overwhelming. Whether you’re seeking justice, protection, or simply need guidance, the right legal resources can make all the difference. This page provides a range of legal resources and information to help you understand your rights, find legal representation, and take the necessary steps toward resolution and recovery.

1. Understanding Your Rights

Knowing your legal rights is the first step toward protecting yourself and seeking justice. Below are some key areas where victims and their families can learn about their rights:

Victims’ Rights

• Overview: Victims of crime have specific rights under state and federal law, including the right to be informed, to receive protection, and to participate in the criminal justice process.
• National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI): victimlaw.org – Provides information about crime victims’ rights in the United States, including legal protections and how to assert them.
• Office for Victims of Crime (OVC): ovc.ojp.gov – Offers a comprehensive guide to victims’ rights and how to exercise them within the criminal justice system.

Legal Protections for Specific Crimes

• Domestic Violence: Victims of domestic violence may be entitled to protective orders (restraining orders), safe housing, and other legal protections.
• Sexual Assault: Learn about your rights regarding reporting, privacy, and support services after a sexual assault. RAINN’s website (rainn.org) offers detailed information.
• Identity Theft: If you’ve been a victim of identity theft, you have the right to dispute fraudulent transactions, freeze your credit, and take legal action against the perpetrator. Visit IdentityTheft.gov for more details.

2. Finding Legal Representation

Finding the right legal representation is crucial for navigating the complexities of the legal system. Below are resources to help you find experienced attorneys who specialize in your type of case:

National Legal Aid and Defender Association (NLADA)

• Website: nlada.org
• Overview: Provides access to legal aid services for low-income individuals, including those affected by crime. Search their directory to find local legal aid providers.

American Bar Association (ABA) Lawyer Referral Directory

• Website: abafindlegalhelp.com
• Overview: Use the ABA’s lawyer referral service to find an attorney in your area with expertise in criminal law, family law, or other relevant fields.

National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) Legal Resources

• Website: nnedv.org
• Overview: NNEDV offers a directory of legal resources specifically for victims of domestic violence, including information on how to obtain protective orders and other legal protections.

Pro Bono and Legal Aid Services

• Legal Services Corporation (LSC): lsc.gov – Provides funding to legal aid organizations across the U.S. that offer free legal services to low-income individuals.
• Pro Bono Net: probono.net – Connects individuals with pro bono (free) legal assistance from volunteer attorneys in various fields of law.

3. Navigating the Legal System

Understanding how the legal system works can empower you to make informed decisions and advocate for yourself effectively. Here are some resources to guide you:

Courtroom Procedures

• Criminal Court Process: The criminal justice process can be daunting, but understanding the steps—from arrest to trial—can help you prepare. Visit Nolo.com for an overview of criminal law procedures.
• Family Court Process: If your case involves domestic violence, child custody, or divorce, learning about family court procedures is essential. The National Center for State Courts offers resources on family law.

Victim Impact Statements

• Overview: Victim impact statements allow victims and their families to share how a crime has affected them during sentencing. The Office for Victims of Crime provides guidelines on how to prepare and present a victim impact statement.

Filing a Civil Lawsuit

• Overview: In some cases, victims may choose to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator or other responsible parties. Learn more about the process and what to expect through the American Bar Association.

4. Legal Resources for Specific Crimes

Different types of crimes may require specialized legal assistance and resources. Here’s where you can find help for specific situations:

Domestic Violence

• The National Domestic Violence Hotline: thehotline.org – Provides 24/7 support, including legal advice, safety planning, and resources for obtaining protective orders.
• Women’s Law: womenslaw.org – Offers state-by-state legal information for survivors of domestic violence, including custody issues and safety planning.

Sexual Assault

• RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network): rainn.org – Offers legal resources, support, and information on reporting sexual assault, obtaining legal counsel, and navigating the criminal justice system.
• National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC): nsvrc.org – Provides comprehensive resources for survivors of sexual violence, including legal guidance and advocacy tools.

Human Trafficking

• Polaris Project: polarisproject.org – Offers legal resources and support for survivors of human trafficking, including information on immigration relief and civil litigation.
• Human Trafficking Legal Center: htlegalcenter.org – Provides pro bono legal assistance to trafficking survivors and advocates for stronger legal protections.

Identity Theft

• Identity Theft Resource Center (ITRC): idtheftcenter.org – Offers free legal support and guidance on resolving identity theft, including how to file a report, recover stolen funds, and protect your credit.
• Federal Trade Commission (FTC): ftc.gov/idtheft – Provides information on legal rights and steps to take if you’ve been a victim of identity theft.

5. Additional Support Services

Beyond legal assistance, there are various support services available to help victims and their families cope with the aftermath of crime:

Counseling and Support Groups

• Victim Connect Resource Center: victimconnect.org – Offers referrals to counseling and support groups for victims of various crimes.
• The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): nami.org – Provides support groups and mental health resources for crime victims dealing with trauma.

Financial Assistance

• Crime Victim Compensation Programs: Each state offers compensation programs that can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to the crime. Visit the National Association of Crime Victim Compensation Boards to find your state’s program.
• Federal Benefits for Victims: The Office for Victims of Crime provides information on federal benefits available to victims of terrorism, mass violence, and other crimes. Learn more at ovc.ojp.gov.