Resources
The Pinal County Attorney’s Office strives to ensure that victims of crime are treated with fairness, respect and dignity through its Victims Services programs. The Pinal County Attorney’s Office is staffed by Victim Advocates and Legal Assistants dedicated to ensuring victims’ rights are upheld and assisting victims of crime in navigating the criminal/juvenile justice system. Advocates provide victims with information on the many valuable resources offered by the community.
Prior to charges being formally filed against a suspect, the victim will need to speak with the reporting law enforcement agency for updates on the incident. After charges have been formally filed, a victim advocate will be assigned to assist you with your case.
In addition to serving victims of crime, advocates are available to provide domestic violence awareness training to the community.
Forensic Interviews
What is a Forensic Interview?
A forensic interview of a child is a developmentally sensitive and legally sound method of gathering factual information regarding allegations of abuse or exposure to violence. This interview is conducted by a competently trained, neutral professional utilizing research and practice-informed techniques as part of a larger investigative process.
The Purpose of a Forensic Interview
The purpose of a forensic interview is to minimize the number of people who directly interview a child. Forensic interviews are designed to elicit information about what a child has experienced or witnessed. If abuse is disclosed, the interview is used to gather details about their victimization. Department of Child Safety investigators and law enforcement observe the interviews to assist them in their investigations.
The forensic interview is conducted in the child’s primary language, whenever possible. When we are unable to conduct a forensic interview in a child’s primary language, an interpreter will assist. This process also allows the parent/caregiver to meet all of the professionals involved with their child and provides an opportunity to ask questions.
Family Advocacy Centers
At Family Advocacy Centers, the Pinal County Attorney's Office has the experience to help individuals, children, and families reporting abuse by coordinating a comprehensive approach to the investigation and intervention process.
The staff consists of representatives from the Pinal County Attorney’s Office who work in partnership with law enforcement, the Department of Child Services, Office of Child Welfare Investigations and medical and mental health professionals to address the physical, emotional, and legal dimensions of abuse.
Victim advocates are trained professionals that assist and support victims of crime. Advocates provide information on victimization, victims’ legal rights and protections, explain the criminal justice process and help victims with victim compensation applications. The victim advocate also facilitates other important resources and counseling referrals for victims and their families. Victim advocates are responsible for conducting follow-up calls with victims after their visit at the family advocacy center to ensure their needs for assistance and information are being addressed.
Download information on the Multi-Disciplinary Protocol for The Joint Investigation of Child Abuse.
See Inside: A look at the San Tan Valley FAC Center