Advocacy in San Mateo County

Victim Advocacy in San Mateo County

It's not what you think it is.

That's not to say they don't try hard for you. They'll accompany you to police interviews and possibly even to court, but they cannot ethically give legal advice or any indication about what police or the DA can do. If your case makes it to the DA's office, they will keep track of it and alert you when he comes to a decision.

I think advocates are likely most effective when paired with children who have been abused. Regardless of my adulthood, I truly needed the moral support to even talk to authorities. They're a shoulder to cry on, and I'm glad they exist, because my support system had grown very small. I would not dream of telling most of my family about my experience.

Legal Advocacy in San Mateo County

Legal advocacy in San Mateo County during Covid is all but non-existent. That doesn't mean they aren't trying. It just means there is a lot of abuse being reported.

I must have called my local organization at least six times over a span of weeks before I got a successful call back. And even then, the advocate did not have time to answer my questions. You are better off seeking out your own lawyer and asking for advice. They will usually not charge you for the first consultation, and if you are as worried as I was, hire them if you want to pursue a civil lawsuit within the statute of limitations.

Please understand that the District Attorney represents the State, not you. However, in a criminal case, lawyers can accompany a victim to trial, but I am not aware of what level of input they're allowed to make on your behalf.

California Victim Compensation Board - CalVCB

CalVCB provides compensation to victims who are paying out of pocket due to the fallout of someone else's crime.

The application process can go smoothly if your case has already been dismissed and you have a final report, or if there is clear communication between the board and your therapist as a supplement about the crime. However, due to a hiccup in the process (a broken fax machine), I was required to appeal my application with a detailed explanatory letter, which effectively lead to revictimization. I was very hurt and angry that, once again, I was made to feel I needed to prove my need before I would be allowed help.