Model - Justice System
Justice System
The justice system is a central component in effective coordinated response and in collaboration with victim services and legal services are crucial.
The Role of the Justice System in the Protocol
Law enforcement:
- Informing victims of the purpose of VAWA self-petitions and U Visas
- Screening and referral of victims to legal services, including VAWA and U-Visa, victim services, social services
- Respond to Border Patrol for detainees identified as victims of crime
- See training resources below
Prosecutor's Office:
- Crisis intervention
- Screening and referral
- U-Visa Certification
- Victim compensation
Courts:
- Certifying U-Visas
- Encouraging law enforcement in following steps to certify U Visa applications
- Referral to victim and legal services
- Issuing restraining orders and orders of protection
Immigration Courts:
- Recognize when victim has eligibility for VAWA and U-Visa and recommend they ask for hearing rather than voluntary removal
