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Office of the District Attorney District Attorney Soares understands that unfortunately some citizens become a victim of a crime or witness to a crime. This is frequently a very difficult and painful experience. This office is available to support victims and witnesses in the immediate aftermath of a crime and to provide critical advocacy assistance throughout the court process. The Victim Bill of Rights provides that victims and witnesses receive information about the criminal case and advocacy services available to them. Our victim advocates are here to ensure that those rights and services are made available to the victims and witnesses in Albany County. If a crime is committed against a person or their property, a victim does not have to hire a private attorney. The District Attorney's Office prosecutes the case in the name of the People; that is, THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK vs. Jane Doe. Working as a team, an Assistant District Attorney ("ADA") and Victim Witness Advocate ("Advocate") are assigned to each case once it enters the court system. The ADA and Advocate keep the victim or witness informed of the case progress and will answer any questions that arise concerning it. Victim and witness' input and involvement are important. It is the policy of District Attorney David Soares that the interests and concerns of victims are presented to the court and that the views of crime victims are considered in determining the appropriate recommendations concerning the disposition of a case. Advocate victim witness services that are available include: • Crisis Intervention and Emotional support Information and assistance regarding Any questions or concerns may be directed to the Victim/Witness Services at:
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