When I was at my most vulnerable, utterly traumatized and broken after surviving horrific crimes, I was assigned a victim advocate (victim witness advocate), I had no idea the words I shared, or my emotional state could be used against me in court or to secure a plea. I, like many survivors, sought comfort and guidance from the prosecutions victim advocate, assuming our conversations were confidential. When I started to question their inner workings, it led to extreme retraumatization. Unlike independent domestic violence (DV) and sexual assault (SA) advocates who pledge stringent confidentiality, system based advocates do not have the same obligation in most states. This lack of transparency leaves countless survivors exposed, and unaware that their deepest traumas may inadvertently strengthen the defense’s case against them. Plain and simple they should not present themselves as advocates. Laws and protections for defendants are clear and strictly enforced. Although victims rights exist in every state, they are rarely enforced. 

Every survivor deserves to know the full implications of confiding in a system based advocate. This isn't just a matter of ethical support; it's about ensuring that the legal system does not retraumatize those it claims to protect. While independent advocates prioritize the confidentiality and healing of victims, government advocates can often, intentionally or unintentionally, act as another arm of the legal system without making this distinction clear to those they are portrayed to serve. Ultimately they serve the State. 

In numerous cases, survivors experience guilt, shame, and self doubt. These feelings can be unfortunately twisted by defense attorneys to introduce reasonable doubt, complicating the pursuit of justice. Mandating clear privacy disclosures for government victim advocates would ensure that survivors are fully informed. With this knowledge, they can make empowered decisions about what to share and whom to trust with their experiences. An independent advocate acts as a safeguard and can attend all interviews and court proceedings in place of a system based advocate. 

The lack of mandated transparency fails the very individuals these advocates are marketed to support. Victims share powerful, personal traumas without the reassurance of confidentiality, potentially compromising if the offender will be held accountable. Implementing clear, standardized policies would not only protect victims but also reinforce the integrity of the advocacy programs themselves. Victims should have the assurance of knowing that they have essential support that is separate from the legal obligations that could otherwise jeopardize their standing.

The treatment myself and many others who have had to courage to speak up, is quite the opposite of the very statement written on the County website for their advocates. The Mission Statement reads as: 

"Mission Statement

It is the mission of the Victim Witness Unit to actively provide advocacy services to victims and witnesses of crime, to safeguard the protection of their rights, and to empower victims and witnesses in their participation throughout the criminal justice system. Our goals are to:

Help support victims and witnesses in a proactive manner to make the judicial process more accessible and responsive to the needs of those impacted by crime

Every Victim and Witness will be treated with dignity and respect

Alleviate anxieties surrounding uncertainties through compassionate care

and education of the Criminal Justice System

Rights of victims and witnesses are prioritized and safeguarded

Deliberately foster collaboration between prosecutors, law enforcement, and other agencies to ensure victims have a meaningful role in the Criminal Justice System"

This statement doesn't only lack transparency, it's misleading at best.

Help us urge the relevant authorities to mandate clear privacy and confidentiality disclosures from all government victim advocates. By signing this petition, you can stand with survivors and advocate for their right to truly confidential and supportive advocacy. Together, let's protect the vulnerable and ensure advocacy systems prioritize the well-being of those they were created to help. Please sign this petition to bring about a necessary change, safeguarding the rights and dignity of all victims.