🐎 Virginia Victim Rights & Resources
If you are a survivor of abuse, crime, or professional misconduct in Virginia, this guide helps you understand your legal rights, navigate complaint processes, and connect with compensation and advocacy resources in your state.
🚫 This guide is not a substitute for legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or reach out to a crisis hotline listed on our Support and Help page. While we strive to provide accurate, current information, laws and agency procedures may change. Always verify details directly with official sources or consult a licensed attorney in your area.
📜 Your Rights Under Virginia Law
Virginia’s Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act guarantees rights including:
- The right to be treated with dignity, respect, and sensitivity
- The right to be informed of criminal justice processes
- The right to protection from intimidation or harassment
- The right to restitution and to be heard during court proceedings
🔗 Virginia Victims’ Bill of Rights – Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services
📂 Public Records & Documentation
Victims may request:
- Police reports and incident records
- Court filings and criminal history records
- 911 call audio and law enforcement recordings (where available)
💡 Reference Virginia’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Requests should be made in writing, with dates and identifying details included.
🏥 Requesting Medical Records
You may request:
- Your own medical records
- Records of a child or dependent (if legally authorized)
- A deceased individual’s records (with appropriate documentation)
🔗 How to File a HIPAA Complaint
🧑⚕️ Reporting Licensed Healthcare Providers
Virginia Board of Medicine:
https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Medicine
Virginia Board of Nursing:
https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Nursing
Virginia Department of Health Professions – File a Complaint:
https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Enforcement
⚠️ Document every step — keep screenshots, emails, and tracking info for any mailed forms.
💰 Victim Compensation in Virginia
The Virginia Victims Fund (VVF) offers reimbursement for crime-related expenses.
Covered expenses may include:
- Medical and counseling services
- Funeral and burial costs
- Wage loss and disability income
- Emergency housing and relocation support
Eligibility Requirements:
- Report the crime within 120 hours (unless good cause is shown)
- File a claim within 1 year (extensions may apply for minors or good cause)
- Cooperate with law enforcement
🔗 Virginia Victims Fund 📞 Phone: 1-800-552-4007 or (804) 378-3434
🤝 VOCA-Funded Services in Virginia
VOCA grants are administered through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services.
🔗 DCJS – Victims Services 📞 General Info: (804) 786-4000
No matter your story, you have rights. The Novel Advocate is here to make sure you’re seen, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
🐎 In a state shaped by revolution and resilience, Virginia survivors — your truth is the new legacy.
