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General FAQs

What legal services does SCVAN offer?

SCVAN provides direct legal representation for victims of crime. This advocacy happens inside and outside of the courtroom. SCVAN attorneys assist victims during the criminal process by providing information about their rights and protecting those rights in court. In addition to victims’ rights enforcement, we take a holistic approach to legal representation and can assist and represent victims in a variety of situations including restraining orders and Title IX hearings.

I can’t afford a lawyer. What do I do?

We offer free legal services! If you are a crime victim, click here to learn about our intake process. Other organizations offering pro bono legal services include the South Carolina Bar and South Carolina Legal Services. In addition, our local resources page provides referrals.

What areas of the state do you serve?

SCVAN operates statewide. Our staff work remotely, but travel across South Carolina to meet with and represent victims of violent crime.

How can I refer someone for services?

It is our policy to speak directly with the victim who is seeking our services. If you know someone who could benefit from our services, refer them to our intake line (803) 509-6552 or our online intake form.

I’m being abused. What can I do?

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911. If you are currently experiencing domestic violence and need help getting to safety, we strongly recommend visiting the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA’s) member organization webpage to find a local resources: https://www.sccadvasa.org/get-help/

You can also visit our Safety Planning and Restraining Order FAQ sections for more information on your options.

How do I get emergency housing?

If you are seeking financial relief through the South Carolina Victim Assistance Network, ONLY Victim Service Providers can request these funds on behalf of a South Carolina crime victim. See our Emergency Fund page for more details. Please note that this is a separate program operated under SCVAN. Victims who apply for legal services will still need to ask their advocate to apply for emergency housing through our Financial Relief Program.

I feel like I’m not getting adequate legal representation. What can I do?

It’s important to discuss any concerns with your attorney. However, victims should be aware that the Solicitor or Prosecutor in a criminal case represents the State of South Carolina, not the victim. Victims have the right to their own attorney throughout the criminal justice process. If you believe your rights as a victim have been violated, you can complete an online intake, and our team can provide guidance on your rights and how to enforce them.

I feel like the Police/Solicitor aren’t taking my case seriously. What should I do?

We encourage you to reach out to your victim advocate at the police department or the Solicitor’s Office. Please know that the investigation and prosecution of a case can be lengthy. If you believe that your rights are being violated, please complete an online intake or call our intake line.

I want to report a crime. How do I do that?

Call your local law enforcement office or go to your nearest police station and ask to file a report. If there is an emergency, call 911.

This website is funded through under Grant No. 2020-V3-GX-K016, awarded by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this website are those of the contributors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.

This website was made possible by a subgrant from the National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI) pursuant to Grant No. 2017-VF-GX-K130, awarded to NCVLI by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of NCVLI.

This Web site is funded through a grant from the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. Neither the U.S. Department of Justice nor any of its components operate, control, are responsible for, or necessarily endorse, this Web site (including, without limitation, its content, technical infrastructure, and policies, and any services or tools provided).

This Web site was made possible by a subgrant from the National Crime Victim Law Institute (NCVLI) pursuant to Grant No. 2017-VF-GX-K130, awarded to NCVLI by the Office for Victims of Crime, Office of Justice Programs, U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of NCVLI.

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