Maryland Victims of Crime
Intimate Partner Violence Educational Video Series
Some victims of intimate partner violence, also known as domestic violence, may not want to participate in the criminal legal process after the police have been called or charges have been filed, due to fear of their abuser or being intimidated by the system. House of Ruth Maryland believes that every victim should have access to information to put them in the best possible position to make their own decisions whether or how to engage with the criminal legal system as part of their overall safety strategy. The following series of educational videos and tip sheets give an overview of each step of the criminal process, including who is involved, what rights crime victims have, what the victim’s role is at each stage, and how to make their voice heard in the process.
This project was funded by the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention, Youth, and Victim Services under sub-award number MVOC-2021-0014. All points of view in these videos are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the position of any State or Federal agency. House of Ruth Maryland would like to thank Deborah Feinstein and Brandy Cannon for their expert contribution to this series, as well as, Melissa Chao and Arcadia, LLC for their assistance in developing this project.
Domestic Violence: The Police Are Involved, Now What?
Once the police are involved, what can victims of domestic violence expect? This video details what may happen next including law enforcement arrival and arrest, bond hearing, and outreach from law enforcement, the State’s Attorney’s Office, and/or service providers, as well as victims’ participation in the process as a witness and limits on the offender contacting victims.
The Police Are Involved, Now What?
Advocate Tip Sheet
The Police Are Involved, Now What?
Victim Tip Sheet
The Police Are Involved, Now What?
English Transcript
Victim Impact Statement Guide
Domestic Violence Criminal Cases: What to Expect In Court
Participation in the criminal justice process can be stressful and scary for victims of intimate partner violence. Help victims feel more comfortable and supported by learning about the court and trial process ahead of time. In this video, learn what happens in court, how to prepare for a trial, who will be in the courtroom and what to expect during the trial.
What to Expect in Court
Advocate Tip Sheet
What to Expect in Court
Victim Tip Sheet
What to Expect in Court
English Transcript
Domestic Violence: I Think I Want to File a Restraining Order
Filing a peace or protective order may be an important step in creating a safety plan with victims of domestic violence and their families. Learn the difference between different types of orders, how to file them, the types of protections that can be granted, and what to expect throughout the process.
Restraining Order
Advocate Tip Sheet
Restraining Order
Victim Tip Sheet
Restraining Order
English Transcript
Victims’ Rights
Victims have rights to victims assistance programs, which includes crisis intervention services, counseling, emergency transportation to court, temporary housing and criminal justice support and advocacy. In this video, learn the eleven specific rights victims have in Maryland so that you can help victims of intimate partner violence.
Victims’ Rights
Advocate Tip Sheet
Victims’ Rights
Victim Tip Sheet
Victims’ Rights
English Transcript
Victim Impact Statement Guide
Crime Victims Rights Chart
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Preparing Your Child to Testify in Court
Children who need to testify in court might be nervous and not know what to expect. Parents and guardians play important roles in helping children feel more comfortable. In this video, learn what is expected of children testifying during the trial process so you can better answer their questions and help them feel safe and at ease before, during and after court.
Preparing Your Child to Testify in Court
Advocate Tip Sheet
Preparing Your Child to Testify in Court
Victim Tip Sheet
Preparing Your Child to Testify in Court
English Transcript
Cybercrimes: How Maryland Law Can Protect You
The internet, social media, messenger apps, email and other digital media platforms are often used by abusers to control and manipulate their partners. Understand your rights and learn how you can document and report instances of stalking, harassment and sextortion, in this video covering cybercrimes in Maryland.