Is Victim Advocacy still alive and well?

By Melissa Rueschhoff

The US Department of Justice terminated hundreds of grants for crime victim services on April 22,2025. Then, just two days later, they reversed the grant cancellations for crime victim support and passed a bipartisan bill aimed at stabilizing the Crime Victims Fund. 

• Crime Victim Fund Stabilization:

The Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act, a bipartisan bill, seeks to address funding issues for victim services by utilizing unobligated funds collected under the False Claims Act. This is intended to provide temporary relief to the fund and support victims through fiscal year 2029. 

• Continued Advocacy
  • State – The Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) offers a directory of crime victim services, including state-specific resources. 
  • Federal – Organizations like the National Center for Victims of Crime (NCVC)

Empowering Survivors – Victim Advocacy at Holon Law Partners, LLP:

At Holon, justice and the right of every individual to feel safe and supported are prioritized, especially after a crime. This is why Holon is dedicated to victim advocacy, using our attorneys’ prosecution background and legal expertise to help survivors navigate the complex legal system and rebuild their lives.

What is Victim Advocacy in a Legal Setting?

Victim advocacy goes beyond legal representation. It means supporting victims and ensuring they are informed of their rights and options at every stage of the legal process. It includes:

• • Understanding Legal Rights and Protections: Helping victims understand their rights, such as the right to be heard in court and access victim services.
  • Navigating the Criminal Justice System: Explaining the criminal justice process, assisting with paperwork, and acting as a liaison between victims and either law enforcement or legal professionals.
  • Accessing Resources and Support: Connecting victims with resources such as counseling, support groups, and financial assistance programs.
  • Securing Legal Remedies: Helping victims explore options for compensation and other legal remedies to address the harm they’ve suffered.

Why does Holon Prioritize Victim Advocacy?

• • Victims Deserve a Voice: The legal process can be daunting, and victims often feel powerless. The goal is to empower them and ensure their concerns and experiences are heard.
  • Healing Requires Support: The journey towards healing after victimization is challenging. Legal support can play a crucial role in enabling victims to move forward.
  • Justice for All: Every individual, regardless of the type of crime they’ve experienced, deserves fair treatment and access to justice.

How is Holon Making a Difference Through Victim Advocacy?

Victim advocacy work allows us make a real difference in the lives of clients. It plays a role in helping them:

• • Regain a sense of control and safety.
  • Access the resources they need to heal and recover.
  • Hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.