The  Victim Witness Liaison is relatively new and provides services for victims and witnesses delivering information and support while providing referrals to community and government agencies and liaising with court personnel. Due to having only one staff oversee the program which services 49 NAN First Nations, the program will be unable to meet the service demand. Therefore, based on this presumption, the program will outline factors that will determine prioritization for victim/witness services.

 

The priority scale is merely a guide for those times when we encounter situations whereby cases and court delays overlap each other. The guiding principle in determining services for victims and witnesses will be based in safety and urgency of each case.

 

Priority One

• Whereby the safety of a spouse or child is at risk or threatened with harm;
• Whereby there has been a breach of conditions by an offender or accused;
• Whereby the victims or witnesses are being ostracized or banished from their community;
• Whereby there is political interference against the victims and witnesses;
• Victims and witnesses who reside in an isolated community;
• Child abuse cases including physical and sexual assault.

Pri ority Two

• Sexual assault cases;
• Homicide and manslaughter cases.

Priority Three

• Domestic assault matters;
• Alcohol-related charges;
• Family Court cases including divorce and custody cases;
• Child Welfare cases including adoption and temporary care agreements;
• Vandalism;
• Substance abuse.

Priority Four

• Community workshops;
• Interagency meetings;
• Presentations.