Here are the answers to some common questions you may have. If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact your local victim service program.

I was the victim of a crime. When will I know what my rights are?

• Within 24 hours after the crime is reported to the local police, they will give you written information that tells
  you what your rights are and what services are available to you.
• When your local victim service program learns how to reach you, they will call you on the phone or send you a letter. If you have questions right away, you can call them first.

I do not have any money. Can I still receive services?
Absolutely. All services provided by the local victim service program are free of charge.

As a victim of a crime, do I need to do anything?
Yes. You must make sure the police, the district attorney’s office and your local victim service program know how to reach you at all times. This means they need your correct address and phone number. If you move or change your phone number, make sure you give them the new information.

I live in Pennsylvania, but the crime happened in another state. The court process will happen in that state.
Do these rights still apply?
No. Unfortunately, these rights are only for victims who were hurt by crime in Pennsylvania. The only exception
is if the crime is an act of international terrorism. The good news is that many states have similar laws and programs
to help crime victims. Please call your local victim service program and they will tell you how to contact the right agencies
in the other state.

I don’t think I received all the rights I should have. What should I do?

• First, be sure you have read and understand the Bill of Rights. If you don’t understand, ask a friend or family
  member to read the Bill of Rights with you.
• Second, call your local victim service program. Let them know you believe you did not receive all of your rights.
• Third, if the person you are speaking with is not able to help you, politely ask to speak to someone in charge.
• Fourth, if you speak to someone in charge and you still feel that you are not receiving your rights, please contact one of these organizations:
  • Coalition of Pennsylvania Crime Victim Organizations: copcvo@copcvo.org or (888) 378-0188
  • Pennsylvania Office of the Victim Advocate: ra-ovainfo@state.pa.us or (800) 563-6399
  • Pennsylvania Commission on Crime & Delinquency: ra-victimsrights@state.pa.us