Is there a fee for services?
No. VRC offers its services free of charge.

Why don't you have a sign in front of your building?
To maintain a level of safety and confidentiality for those who come to the office to receive services.

Do you provide transportation?
Transportation is provided to clients when resources are available.

Do I need to get an attorney for the preliminary hearing?
In criminal cases, the District Attorney's office or the arresting police officer is responsible for handling the case.

Does VRC provide legal representation?
No. The District Attorney's office is responsible for handling all criminal matters. We provide referral information for the District Attorney's office and civil attorneys.

Will a VRC staff member attend the hearing with me?
Yes. You may ask for accompaniment, and a counselor will go with you to provide support, answer your questions and explain the legal system.

What can I do if the offender calls me or comes to my house?
You always have the right to call the police (911), if at any time, you feel your safety is in jeopardy.

What is restitution?
If you had any personal property stolen or damaged or if cash was stolen you can ask for restitution. The offender, if found guilty, will be ordered to pay you the cost of repairing or replacing these items.

Does the district judge always grant restitution?
While we can't say that it is granted in every case, the judge takes the feelings and requests of the victim into consideration.

Is it common for preliminary hearings to be continued?
Yes. If the offender does not have an attorney or if one of the parties involved is unable to attend, it may be continued.

Do I have to look at the offender?
You only have to look at the offender to identify him or her to the court.

Is there a fee for VRC prevention education programs?
Many programs are available at no charge. A fee may be charged for some programs, including some programs for professional audiences.

Are VRC prevention programs available for all age groups?
Yes. Age-appropriate presentations on personal safety are available for preschoolers, seniors and everyone in between.

Are you a domestic violence agency?
In Wyoming County Victims Resource Center provides service to domestic violence victims. In Luzerne and Carbon Counties the Domestic Violence Service Center is the primary agency that provides service to victims of domestic violence.

Is VRC a county agency?
No. We are a private, non-profit agency.

What are your office hours?
Our Luzerne County office is open Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Carbon and Wyoming county offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm Counselor/advocates are available 24-hours a day on our hotline.

Will you contact my parents?
All VRC counselor/advocates are mandated reporters of child abuse. If we suspect a child is being abused by someone that lives in their home or is responsible for their care we have to report that to childline.