Prosecutors seeking justice in crim es of sexual and domestic violence must often balance holding perpetrators accountable and valuing victim autonomy. Many victims are unable to parti cipate in the prosecution for reasons including fear\, ongoing trauma\, lo ve for or loyalty to the perpetrator\, intimidation\, financial harm\, sel f-blame\, or embarrassment. Reliving the traumatization of their sexual as sault or domestic abuse while feeling like they are in the spotlight can b e overwhelming and lead to reluctance to participate in the process. When this happens\, the pressure to ensure offenders are fully prosecuted may t empt prosecutors to utilize more extreme methods such as material witness warrants or to seek body attachments or bench warrants—without full appr eciation of the impact on the victim or a consideration of possible altern atives.
\nThis presentation will discuss th e obstacles victims face when considering whether to participate in the pr osecution of domestic violence or sexual assault and will suggest strategi es that prosecutors can use to minimize these barriers to facilitate victi m participation. Presenters will highlight the negative impacts that pre-t rial detention and other next-level measures have on victims and on the co mmunity. In circumstances when victims are unable to participate\, present ers will discuss possible alternatives for the prosecutor and consideratio ns for balancing public safety risks with victim self-determination.
\nObjectives
\nAt the conclusion of the presentation\, participants will b e better able to:
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