People often have a number of legal needs as a result of becoming a victim of crime. Get information about your civil legal needs here, and learn what your rights are.
The information here is offered only as a public service and does not count as legal advice. If you’re having a specific problem, you should find a lawyer who is knowledgeable about the legal problem you’re facing.
Not sure of whether a crime has happened to you? Our checklist may help you identify if you are a crime victim.
Looking for information about criminal court? Learn about criminal court basics or talk to a crime victim advocate near you.
Victims Rights
State and U.S. laws grant crime victims certain rights. In New York State, crime victims have a number of rights within the criminal justice system, such as the right to protection and financial repayment.
Topics covered:
Family Law Issues
Many victims of crime experience problems in different areas of life, including their family life. There are legal solutions for some of these family-related problems.
Topics covered:
Safety Issues
Safety is important, especially for victims of crime. Knowing and dealing with the emotional impact of what happened to you is just as important as dealing with your safety needs.
Topics covered:
- Domestic Violence Programs and Shelters
- Extreme Risk Protection Orders
- Internet & Cell Phone Safety
- Keeping Your Address Confidential in Family Court
- NYS Address Confidentiality Program
- Offender Custody Status
- Orders of Protection from Family Court and Hope Cards
- Safety and Voting
- Safety Plans
- Trauma & Impact on Victims of Crime
Immigration Issues
Many immigrants who are victims of crime are afraid to get help because they believe they will be deported. But there are protections for legal and undocumented crime victims.
Topics covered:
Money & Financial Issues
Financial loss can be one of the results of becoming a crime victim, for example stolen money, destroyed belongings, lost income or medical expenses.
Topics covered:
Housing Issues
After becoming a victim of a crime, some people are worried about their housing needs. Am I safe in my home? Can I pay my mortgage? Am I being discriminated against because I’m a crime victim?
Topics covered:
Employment Issues
Are you a crime victim? Are you afraid to take time off from work to go to court or to get medical help because you may lose your job? Know what your employment rights are.
Topics covered:
Domestic Violence & Other Victimization
Anyone can become a victim of crime. The type of crime often plays a significant role in how you are affected and the kinds of help available to you.
Topics covered:
LGBTQ+ Rights & Hate Crimes
Although anyone can be a victim of crime, members of the LGBTQ+ community (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender/Transsexual, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, Asexual, and others) experience unique challenges and concerns.
Topics covered:
Can't Find What You Need?
Are you having trouble finding the legal information that you need?
You can use LiveHelp to chat with someone who can help you find what you need. Just click on the chat button on the bottom right of your screen to chat with a LiveHelp Agent.
