The Victims’ Assistance Division serves as a liaison between the victims of violent crime and the criminal justice system. It is important to this Office that the victims know and understand how the court system functions.
Duties
We have four staff members that ensure that we comply with the State mandates in the Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights. They ensure that each victim of a violent crime has the opportunity to have input into the ultimate decision of how the offender is prosecuted and punished.
Resources
Texas Victim Information and Notification Everyday (VINE)
Texas VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday), is a free, anonymous, computer-based telephone service which can be reached at 877-894-8463. This service provides victims of crime with information and notification concerning the custody and court status of offenders. This service is provided in Denton County by the Denton County Criminal District Attorney, the Denton County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with the VINE Company.
Please check the VINE page for more information.
Crime Victim Rights
Crime victims in Texas have a right to:
- Be present at all court proceedings related to the offense, subject to judge’s approval
- Be protected from further harm or threats for cooperating with prosecution efforts
- Be provided with a separate and secure waiting area for witnesses at a trial
- Have counseling regarding acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS/HIV) if the offense creates the need
- Have employer notified if testimony requires absence from work
- Have the victim’s safety considered in the setting of bail
- Information about the Crime Victims’ Compensation Program
- Information about a defendant’s right to bail and the procedures in a criminal investigation and in the criminal justice system
- Information about parole procedures and to be notified upon the release of the defendant
- Information about relevant court proceedings
- Information and an explanation of these rights
- Prompt return of property held as evidence when it is no longer required
- Provide pertinent information on the impact of the offense to be considered at the time of sentencing and parole