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1. I am the victim in a criminal case. How do I find out who will be prosecuting my case?

You will receive a letter and brochure from the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office and Victim/Witness Services which provides you with the name of the prosecutor and a phone number should you need to contact them, as well as other helpful information. You may also request this information by contacting the Victim/Witness Office.

2. I have moved from Suffolk since the crime occurred. Who pays for my travel expenses?

The Commonwealth of Virginia will reimburse certain travel expenses for victims or witnesses provided the following conditions are met:
1. The victim or witness is subpoenaed by the Commonwealth's Attorney's Office.
2. The victim or witness travels more than fifty (50) miles in one direction to appear in court.
3. The travel reimbursement has been approved by the prosecutor assigned to the case and arrangements are made through Victim/Witness Service.

3. I am a domestic violence victim. My husband promised to never lay a hand on me again. Can I drop the charges?

No. The only person who can request the court to drop charges is the Prosecutor. Suffolk's Commonwealth's Attorney has implemented a No-Drop Policy in domestic violence cases. This is to protect you against further violence and to document the violence that has already occurred.

4. What is a preliminary hearing, and do I need to be there?

A preliminary hearing is a scheduled court event with testimony under oath. The judge, defendant, defendant's attorney, the prosecutor and any victims or witnesses subpoenaed are present.
The prosecutor must prove to the judge that there is enough evidence to show that a crime has been committed (known as probable cause). The prosecutor will put on minimal evidence sufficient to justify further proceedings. If the prosecution establishes probable cause, the victim is usually required to testify, and the case is certified to the Grand Jury.

5. I can't afford to pay the medical expenses which resulted from this crime. What compensation is available to me?

Find information about the compensation available to you on the Compensation for Medical Expenses From a Crime page.

6. I have been threatened to drop the charges and told not to testify. Who can help me?

Threatening a victim or witness is a serious crime in Virginia. If you are threatened by the defendant, or anyone else in regard to your case, immediately call the Suffolk Police Department at 911, or the Detective Bureau.

7. I am concerned that the defendant's attorney may contact me. What should I do?

You may discuss the case with the defense if you wish, but you are not required to. You should inform the prosecutor handling your case either way.

8. Who do I contact if I feel an elderly person or physically impaired adult is being abused, neglected or injured?

Contact Adult Protective Services (1-888-832-3858) at Suffolk's Department of Social Services or call the Suffolk Police at 911 if it is an emergency.

9. What is a bond hearing and what is the victim's role?

The defendant may request a bond hearing in which the judge reviews the defendant's current bond and determines whether or not to reduce it. The victim has the right to be notified of such proceedings and may address the court. The victim informs the court of any reason why the defendant should not receive a reduction, i.e. future threat to you or others; unemployed; unstable living conditions; or not living in this area.

10. I was issued a subpoena for court. What happens if I don't show up?

If you do not have permission to be excused from court by the Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney prosecuting the case, the court can issue a capias for your arrest for failure to appear. Contact phone numbers are provided on the subpoena to assist you in contacting the attorney should the need arise.