Our office receives a good number of calls each week asking if we represent “Victims.” Our answer is simple…YES WE DO !!! In California, a crime victim has substantial rights under a body of law called “Marsy’s Law.” This set of laws affords you access to: the charges, any offers made to the defendant, your rights to speak to the Judge at certain times of the case process in court and other rights.
Additionally, as a crime victim you have a complete say as to whether or not you want to be contacted by either the Prosecution or the Defense. You have the right to communicate with whoever you want. Whether you want the individual who harmed you prosecuted is up to you. Although you do not have the ultimate decision as to prosecution…you have a big say. If you do not want the person prosecuted and you are not wanting to participate in the case… you have the right to express that as well.
Bottom line, it is up to you to decide how you feel about the case going forward. We often get calls from people expressing that they were contacted by the District Attorney (DA) and felt as if they were being pressured to assist in the prosecution. The caller will often say “ I do not want Mr. X prosecuted or to go to jail, or to go to prison.” “The prosecutor or victim advocate won’t listen to me.” “The Victim Witness Department is rude to me or won’t listen to me.”
Again, your thoughts, as to whether you want prosecution to occur, or not occur, is up to you. Do you need a lawyer to “make them listen!?” Please, give us a call. Oftentimes, I can ‘help them listen to you.’
When You Want Prosecution but the DA Won’t Act
Our office also receives calls where a crime victim wants the perpetrator to be prosecuted and the DA is not listening to the victim. Again, Please give us a call.
How Cohen Criminal Law Protects Victims’ Rights
At Cohen Criminal Law, we are committed to protecting and promoting victims’ rights by ensuring that those who have been harmed by crime have access to adequate resources, including legal representation. Where you have been previously victimized by a perpetrator, you have already been greatly affected; perhaps emotionally and physically. Having to navigate through the criminal justice process alone, after the crime, should not add to that pain. With an experienced victim’s rights attorney as your counsel, you will not feel “revictimized” by the criminal justice system once again.
With attorney representation, you will instead feel protected, understood, and “in the know” about the criminal justice process before each step of the way.
Legal Guidance and Support for Domestic Violence Victims
Victims of domestic violence will often seek an attorney to help guide them through the criminal justice process. During the pendency of the case, there are times when the victim has a voice in court and with guided attorney support throughout the process Cohen Criminal law makes certain that your voice is heard.
As stated, you may not want to speak to the DA, be involved in the case whatsoever, nor speak or testify in court. As a domestic violence victim, you have the right to choose not to speak and the right to choose not to testify.
Empowering You to Make Your Own Choices
With an experienced attorney as your confidant, you choose what is right for you. The attorney conveys and expresses your wishes to the DA and to the Court. With your attorney, you can be confident that your choice, and most importantly you, will not be harassed or maligned by either prosecutors or anyone else said to be involved in the court process.
Contact Cohen Criminal Law Today
If you’re a crime victim who feels unheard or pressured by the system, you don’t have to face it alone. At Cohen Criminal Law, attorney Gregg Cohen stands firmly beside victims throughout California, making sure your voice is heard and your rights are respected. Whether you want to be heard in court, stop unwanted contact, or have your wishes communicated clearly to the DA or the Judge, Gregg Cohen will help you take back control of your case. Contact our firm for a free consultation today.