Victim Advocacy
The principal goals of the Office of Victim Witness Advocacy are to provide information, advocacy, emotional support, and referrals to victims and witnesses coping with the trauma and burdens experienced in the aftermath of crime. The office strives to minimize the inconvenience to victims and witnesses during the course of criminal prosecution. These goals are achieved through the compassionate delivery of a wide range of direct services. Joan Nixon, the PCPO Victim Witness Coordinator, has been supervising the unit since 2005.
We work collaboratively with our colleagues in the Criminal Justice System and in other victim service agencies in an effort to provide victims with a comprehensive network of support and services. The Unit Coordinator is a member of the Passaic County Multi-Disciplinary Team, and the Passaic County Domestic Violence Working Group.
We also work to provide education and raise public awareness about victims’ rights, the impact of victimization, and available services. Training is provided to law enforcement professionals, community groups, students and volunteer organizations. Each year the unit sponsors a Candlelight Vigil for Victims of Crime to commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, and to acknowledge those in our community whose lives have been impacted by crime. This event provides crime victims an opportunity to come together to share experiences, support one another, and to remember and honor loved ones lost as a result of violent crime. The Candlelight Vigil is held every April.
The unit has a trained staff of victim witness advocates and support personnel. Bi-lingual (English/Spanish) staff members are available Student interns and/or volunteers occasionally provide part-time assistance.
Requests for certifications for U or T Visa applications can be submitted to the Office of Victim Witness Advocacy
U Visa – Victims of Criminal Activity
The U nonimmigrant status (U visa) is set aside for victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity.
T Visas – Victims of Human Trafficking
T nonimmigrant status is a temporary immigration benefit that enables certain victims of a severe form of human trafficking to remain in the United States for up to 4 years if they have assisted law enforcement in an investigation or prosecution of human trafficking.
The County Prosecutor's Office maintains a SECURE WEBSITE where victims can log in to find out information about their case. To access the Victim Portal click link below:
If you have not received an authorization code in the mail, please contact the Office of Victim Witness Advocacy at 973-881-4887.
Contact Information:
Telephone: 973-881-4887
Fax: 973-754-1681
Please click on the links below to download these forms: