NH Department of Justice – Office of Victim/Witness Assistance – Concord, NH

NH Office of Victim/Witness Assistance (OVWA)

The Office of Victim/Witness Assistance (OVWA) is a specialized unit within the New Hampshire Department of Justice, located at the Attorney General’s office at 33 Capitol Street in Concord. Established legislatively to ensure that all victims of crime are treated with dignity and respect, this office serves as the central coordinating body for victim services statewide. While the Department of Corrections handles post-conviction matters, the OVWA at the DOJ focuses on the prosecutorial phase, particularly providing direct, 24-hour support for victims of homicide and their families.

Core Services and Support

The OVWA provides comprehensive services to help victims navigate the complex and often overwhelming criminal justice system. Key functions include:

• Homicide Victim Support: Serving as the primary point of contact for surviving family members in homicide cases, offering crisis intervention, case status updates, and accompaniment to court proceedings.
• Cold Case Liaison: Working in conjunction with the Cold Case Unit to support families of unsolved homicides, keeping them informed of any developments and acting as a bridge to investigators.
• Victim Rights Advocacy: Ensuring that the NH Bill of Rights for Crime Victims is upheld, which includes the right to be heard, the right to be informed, and the right to protection.
• System Coordination: Developing statewide protocols and training for law enforcement and prosecutors to standardize the compassionate treatment of victims across all counties.

Judicial Process Guidance

For victims and witnesses involved in high-stakes litigation prosecuted by the Attorney General, the OVWA offers critical logistical and emotional support. This includes explaining the stages of a trial, assisting with Victim Impact Statements, and coordinating secure waiting areas during testimony to prevent intimidation. The office aims to reduce the trauma of the trial process by ensuring victims understand their role and the proceedings.

Location and Contact

The office is situated in the State House Annex area on Capitol Street. Due to the sensitive nature of their work and the security of the Attorney General’s building, visits are typically by appointment or coordination with a case advocate. The OVWA also manages the Victims’ Compensation Program, which can help innocent victims of violent crime pay for medical/dental expenses, mental health counseling, and funeral costs directly related to the crime.