Victims

What does the Victim Information and Advice Service do?

WHAT?

VIA offers a service to victims and witnesses of crimes reported to the Procurator Fiscal (the Fiscal) which involve:

  • Domestic abuse

  • Racial or religious aggravation

  • Sexual offences

  • Child victims and witnesses

  • Crimes where any trial is likely to involve a jury

We also offer a service to:

  • The next of kin in cases of deaths which may involve criminal proceedings, or where there is to be a Fatal Accident Inquiry or significant further inquiries.

  • Vulnerable witnesses or victims. A person may be considered vulnerable if they need additional support; for example, if English is not their first language, or they have learning difficulties.

All victims, witnesses and next of kin have the right to decide not to receive the services offered at all and are free to make this decision at any time.