Victim advocates provide support to children and family members throughout the entire CAC process. Victim-centered advocacy means providing support and resources such as safety planning, referrals for additional services, legal assistance, and ongoing case updates to the parents or guardians of the child. The ultimate goal is to provide a network of support to protect the child from any further harm or distress, and to promote healing.
Research shows that parent and caregiver support significantly improves the chances of reducing the effects of trauma and PTSD in children, and is essential for implementing abuse prevention and safety measures. Advocates give parents and caregivers the option and ability to actively participate in investigation, treatment, prosecution, and support services.
The CAC process ensures that victim support and advocacy is consistent with victim's rights legislation in Illinois, as well as effective collaboration with Kane County social service agencies and additional resources.
The Illinois Crime Victim's Bill of Rights protects the rights of victims and witnesses to violent crimes. This includes the right to be treated with fairness and respect, to be informed and reasonably protected throughout the criminal justice process, and to be receive timely notification of court proceedings and case updates.
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