Reference no: EM131858133

How would you respond?

1. Victim assistance helps to reduce the inconvenience that they face when appearing in court (Neubauer, 2017). These programs often include comfortable waiting areas, prompt return of stolen properties, providing an understanding of the court process/procedures, and notifying the victim of upcoming court dates (Neubauer, 2017). Studies show that although victims were more likely to to appear in court when they had the assistance, the rate was the same as those who were not aided in the case of case dismissals (Neubauer, 2017). Compensation programs are a wonderful addition to help victims cope. The court will order restitution for the defendant to pay the victim. The issue with this is that the defendant doesn't always have the funds to pay the victim back. Then the restitution falls onto the government either by their insurance if they have it or the government itself. The compensation program is usually medical expenses and lost earnings, not lost or damaged property (Neubauer, 2017). I think the main reason why they are not used as often is either the victim does not know about the program or because eligibility is strict. The victim must assist with the prosecution process, there is a family exclusion clause making those living with the abuser ineligible, and they must be absolutely innocent (Neubauer, 2017).  Overall I think that these programs are amazing and beneficial for those who are victims. I wish the eligibility was not so strict. I understand why it is to help with funding and spreading it around, but I do not think the family clause is fair at all. The programs do not fix everything nor are they 100% compensating for the wellbeing of the victim, but they do help. I think it would be beneficial to use those funds to help with counseling for the victim if they need it as well as helping with housing/paychecks depending on the situation.
2. Victim assistance and victim compensation programs can amazing things and try to equal a score that in some cases money and other means just aren't enough. The finical compensation never really adds up to be much since the money the offender in prison makes isn't a lot. Some victims/victims families enjoy knowing that the offender is paying regardless if it is a lot of money but it's added remembrance of the crimes they have committed. Other victims don't want the reminder when they get the check or whatever it maybe, though they will never forget what was done to them they would rather focus on moving on. "The OVA manages the day-to-day operational aspects of the Victim Assistance Program (VAP) in the 56 FBI field offices across the country as well as the FBI's international offices. In addition, the OVA is responsible for providing training and information that helps to equip FBI agents and other FBI personnel to work effectively with victims". (Victim Assistance, 2018)