Q62418

A victim advocate is a trained professional whose primary responsibility is to assist crime victims by providing emotional and legal support. They become involved with victims almost immediately after a crime either directly through law enforcement agencies or by referrals from prosecutors. They can focus on a specific area of advocacy such as sexual assault, child abuse, homicide, elder abuse or domestic violence. An advocate coordinates services and support for victims as needed; for example, arranging transportation, coordinating medical evaluations, scheduling court preparation sessions or accompanying a victim to their court appearance. People skills such as empathy and listening are in high demand in this particular field, one must be sensitive the victim they are assisting as well as able to help them coup well simultaneously guiding them through the judicial aspects of their situation. That is what makes this line of work particularly stressful. A minimum of a bachelor's degree is necessary to become a victim advocate. A degree in criminal justice, social work or a behavioral science such as psychology or counseling is recommended. All advocates must have a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system, victimization, crisis intervention and cultural/ethnic diversity. The average annual salary for a victim advocate is $50,000.

Kimber, Joy. "Job Description of a Victim's Advocate." //EHow//. Demand Media, 23 May 2010. Web. 10 Dec. 2012.