FAQs

What is the difference between restitution and Victims Compensation Assistance Program?: The Victims Compensation Assistance Program is the payer of last resort. You must utilize all other methods of payment, such as health insurance or car insurance before you are eligible to apply for Victims Compensation Assistance Program. Victims Compensation Assistance Program does not cover property loss or pain and suffering. For more information, see the special section on Victims Compensation Assistance Program on this site.

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District Attorney's Office of Victim Services

1. Can I drop charges?: You can not drop the charges with out the District Attorney and the Judge's permission.

2. My property was recovered by the police, how do I get it back?: You may have to wait until your case has been disposed of before your property can be returned to you. In some cases, defendants may appeal their sentence. When that happens, all appeals must be completed before property will be returned. You will need to notify the police department that you want your property returned.

3. Do I need to hire my own attorney?: No, the Commonwealth represents your interests. The District Attorney or Assistant District Attorney prosecutes the case on your behalf.

4. Are there counseling services available to crime victims?: Yes, counseling is available. For victims of sexual assault/abuse: The STTARS program-724-229-5007 or 1-888-480-7283. For Domestic Violence: The Washington Women’s Shelter-724-223-9190 or 1-800-791-4000 For other violent crimes: The Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program can refer you to therapists. All of these services are available free of charge and are confidential.

5. What is the difference between restitution and Victims Compensation Assistance Program?: The Victims Compensation Assistance Program is the payer of last resort. You must utilize all other methods of payment, such as health insurance or car insurance before you are eligible to apply for Victims Compensation Assistance Program. Victims Compensation Assistance Program does not cover property loss or pain and suffering. For more information, see the special section on Victims Compensation Assistance Program on this site.

6. If I have to go to court, how should I dress?: Dress nicely in clothes you may wear to work.

7. I have to testify, what will I say?: The most important thing to remember is to tell the truth. The Assistant District Attorney will explain more in detail prior to the court date and time.

8. Who pays for the services provided by the Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program?: All of the staff and programs of the Crime Victim/Witness Assistance Program are paid through grants. No County tax dollars are used to support this program. Most of the funds come from fines and costs levied on defendants.

9. How can I find out more about my court case?: You can call the Office of Victim Services at any time and an advocate will check on the status of the case for you. (724-229-5922 or if you know the name of the advocate assigned to your case, you can contact that individual.)

10. How soon will I get my restitution money?: When the defendant comes into make a payment. The Clerk of Courts office sends the checks out at the beginning of each month.

11. What if the defendant does not pay his restitution?: The Clerk of Courts office sends out a 30 day delinquency letter. A 60 day delinquency letter. If no payments have been made they must appear before the Judge and tell him why they are not making payments.

12. Do I need to be present in court?: You do not need to be present in court unless the Office of Victim Services or the District Attorney’s Office contacts you and asks you to be there, however, as a victim you have the right to be there if you wish.

13. Is restitution mandatory?: Yes. Pennsylvania legislation, Act 1995-12, requires the court to order payment in the following order to: The victim Crime Victim's Compensation Board Any other governmental agency which has provided reimbursement to the victim as a result of the defendant's criminal conduct Any insurance company which has provided reimbursement to the victim as a result of the defendant's criminal conduct.

14. How do I get restitution?: Restitution may be paid in a lump sum, in monthly installments, or in any other payment plan the court may order.

15. Will my restitution be paid promptly?: Collection of restitution may be a lengthy process. The defendant's ability to pay affects when you receive payment. Although the defendant is ordered to pay the restitution, payment may not be made if the defendant has little or no income.

16. What is not covered by restitution?: Submitted claims cannot include lost wages, inflated car values, pain and suffering or the sentimental value of property.

17. Can my insurance company receive reimbursement from the defendant?: Yes. The court can order restitution to your insurance company. You need to provide the Office of Victim Services with your insurance company's address and claim number. A restitution claim form will be sent to your insurance company so that a claim can be submitted.

18. Is someone available to accompany me to court?: A Victim Advocate from the Office of Victim Services, which is part of the District Attorney’s Office, is available to meet you in court, explain the legal proceedings to you, and answer any questions you may have. You may also feel free to call them for updates on your case as it progresses through the system.