RT Article
T1 Investigators’ and Prosecutors’ Perceptions of Collaborating With Victim Advocates on Sexual Assault Casework
JF Criminal justice policy review
VO 28
IS 6
SP 555
OP 569
A1 Gaines, D. Cody
A2 Wells, William
LA English
YR 2017
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1725654814
AB Despite the importance of strong partnerships between victim advocates and criminal justice officials, few studies have examined criminal justice officials’ perspectives on collaborating with victim advocates. Officials’ perspectives on advocates’ roles in the investigation and prosecution of sexual assaults are measured to understand the barriers to collaboration and strengths that can be capitalized upon. A sample of sexual assault investigators from a large police department were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. A sample of prosecutors from the jurisdiction, experienced in processing sexual assault cases, responded to paper-and-pencil surveys. Findings reveal that officials believe advocates make positive contributions to the justice system process through effective communication and by supporting victims and their families. Barriers to strong partnerships include concerns about role conflicts and advocate involvement in criminal investigations. Reform efforts can use these findings through explicit work to capitalize on perceived strengths and overcome barriers.
K1 Victim advocacy
K1 Violence against women
K1 Rape
K1 Criminal court
DO 10.1177/0887403415592176