Revised for 2007, this video is intended to educate victims about the investigative and criminal justice processes so that they may be better able to understand and assist in the investigation and prosecution of the offender(s). Through the testimonials of victims of violent crimes, viewers will gain insight into victims’ experience with the criminal justice system in key areas of: violent crime investigative procedures, step-by-step explanation of the criminal justice process, and courtroom proceedings.

Victims of Violence: A Guide to Help Bring Justice is designed to be a tool for law enforcement officers as well as victim advocacy groups, victim outreach programs, and providers of victim services. Beyond the initial viewing by law enforcement officers, departments may obtain additional copies from POST to distribute to victims or victim agencies.

The DVD program offers two viewing options:

1. Play Telecourse in its entirety (100 min.)

2. Select among six Telecourse segments:

• Victims’ Stories (9 min.)

• In the Aftermath of Crime (13 min.)
Introduction
Eliminating Suspects
Who’s Who in the Investigation
Being Open with Information
Keeping Notes
Putting the Case Together

• The Criminal Justice System (55 min.)
Introduction
Arraignment
Charging Decisions
Pre-Trial Hearings
The Presumption of Innocence
Pre-Trial Motions
Delays, Continuances & Special Considerations
Role of the DA
Role of the Defense
Role of the Judge
Victim Advocacy
Rights of the Defendant
Victims’ Rights
Unsolved Cases

• Trial (15 min.)
Jury Selection and the Trial Process
Conviction
Victim Impact Statements
Sentencing

• Enduring (5 min.)

• Glossary and Terminology (3 min.)