Victim Services

Case Scenario: Victims’ Rights Michelle is a 20-year old mom and full-time student who works part-time in order to make ends meet. The baby's father is very abusive toward her physically, emotionally, and sexually. The last time he hit Michelle, she was holding their four-month old in her arms and the baby was also hurt in the fight. Michelle, fearing not only for herself, but for her baby, fled the apartment on-foot with her child to go to her parents home. In her fear and haste, she left everything behind. Question: What are some of the victims’ rights that Michelle should have? RESPOND: HALF OF FIRST PAGE Vanessa: As a victim of an abusive relationship, Michelle should be given rights that will aid in her recovery. The first right I think Michelle should have is protection from her offender. Michelle should be able to place a restraining order on her boyfriend if she wishes. A restraining order will ensure her boyfriend's arrest if he gets to close to her and their baby. The second right Michelle should have is access to medical attention for her and her child. During one the altercations both Michelle and the child where injured, access medical attention would help to asses their injuries. The third right Michelle should have is eligibility to receive compensation. Michelle should receive compensation following her crime to help pay for moving expenses and counseling costs. Lastly, Michelle should be informed about the different services available that will help aid in her recovery. These services might include support groups and advocacy groups. Services will give Michelle support and let her know that she is not alone. RESPOND: OTHER HALF OF FIRST PAGE CELESTE: Michelle a young mother who is abused physically, emotionally, and sexually by the baby’s father. The last time she was hit, she had the four month old baby in her arms and was also hurt during the fight. This led to Michelle fleeing her home on foot with her child to her parent’s home in fear of her situation and left everything behind. Some of the victims’ rights that Michelle should have includes the right to protection and the right to compensation. Michelle should have the right to protection if she is continuing to feel threatened, intimidated, or fears that the baby’s father will retaliate. Through this right she is able to receive police escorts and even restraining orders. Because Michelle is a full time student and works part time she should have the right to compensation is she is losing money if she is unable to work, needs medical assistance or counseling due to the abuse by the baby’s father.      

Sample Solution