Participants will be prepared to work in victim advocacy arenas, such as domestic violence shelters, crisis centers, crisis hotlines, and with state and county governments to assist crime victims in progressing through the criminal justice system and toward successful recovery. Course topics include legal terminology, legal process, legislation regarding victims rights, jurisdiction and venue, ethics, effects of victimization on the victim, victim advocate skills, guardianships and crisis intervention. It also covers counseling skills for victims of assault, battery, robbery, domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, murder and homicide.

Session 1: This first session focuses on legal terminology and the legal process, theories of victimization, effects of crime on victims and guidelines for responding to victims of crime and trauma. Crime victim statutes will also be discussed.

Session 2: This session covers crisis theories and the role of the crisis interventionist. Students will learn how to respond to crisis situations, understand the actual nature of the crisis, assess the victim's situation, and implement effective listening skills to determine the best support system for the victim.

Session 3: During this session students will learn the facts and myths regarding domestic violence, crimes against children, sexual assault, and related crimes. Discussions will include restraining orders, basic police procedures, guidelines for assisting those dealing with the death of a loved one, and the role of the victim advocate. Job search strategies and placement possibilities will also be discussed.

There are no prerequisites, but students will be expected to complete a significant amount of homework and pass two exams.

Refund Policy

• Students have 15 days from the date they register for the video, audio, or DVD courses to drop the class and receive a refund less a $50 non-refundable administrative fee. Materials, video tapes, audiotapes, and/or DVDs, must be received by CLS in new condition prior to the one month deadline to receive a refund less a $50 non-refundable administrative fee. No items will be accepted after 15 days Books may be returned to CLS within 30 days of purchase for a refund less the cost of shipping. No books will be accepted after 30 days.
• If students drop after 15 days from their registration date no refund will be issued. Books may be returned to CLS within 30 days of purchase for a refund less the cost of shipping. No books will be accepted after 30 days.