Kelsey Griffith, Victim Services Coordinator- (816) 435-4818
Theresa Shephard, Victim Advocate - (816) 435-4812
Summary of Victim Rights as pertains to Family Court
Understanding the Court Process - Brochure
Victim Services supports individuals affected by juvenile crime in various ways, including:
- Providing Victim Impact Statements. Victim Impact Statements are written documents that inform the Court about the victim's psychological, physical or financial losses. The Victim Services Unit is available to assist victims in preparing Impact Statements for the Court.
- Support victims in connecting with relevant agencies and additional services such as counseling, repair of property, emergency funding, medical services, etc.
- Inform victims of their option to file for civil action to recover losses.
- Notify victims of crime victims compensation and assist in filling out appropriate documents.
- Work with victims and local police to help recover any stolen property.
- Provide absence documentation to victims and witnesses for submission to their employer.
- Offer a designated waiting area for victims and witnesses during court hearings and provide accompaniment for victims in court.
- Provide knowledge of the Family Court process to the general public.
The Victim Services Unit also assists victims of violent crime in applying for the Missouri Crime Victim's Compensation Fund. This fund was established by the Missouri legislature to provide victims of violent crime with compensation for unpaid medical bills, lost wages due to injuries suffered, counseling and funeral expenses. Additional information and an application form can be obtained by contacting Victim Services or by visiting the following website:
Victim Compensation information
To report child abuse or neglect call 800 392-3738
For information regarding Small Claims procedures
Restitution Services: Family Court Services program whose purpose
is to make juveniles accountable to their victims through payment of restitution.
Child Victim Advocate: Provides services to children and their custodians who have been sexually assaulted by a juvenile.
Victim Of Crime Notification Program
According to the Missouri Constitution and Missouri Statutes, victims of crime have certain rights which include notification of court dates and final disposition of the case.
For victims of dangerous felonies which include murder, arson, sexual assault, first degree assault, first degree burglary/robbery, kidnapping or the attempt to commit any of these felonies, the following rights shall automatically be afforded. The above rights shall be afforded (if requested in writing) to victims of all other crimes and witnesses.