The Victims’ Journey
Being a victim of crime can be a difficult experience – your feelings may range from anger to helplessness, with fear and worry causing confusion. This page has been designed to help walk you through what might now happen, whether or not you decide to report the crime.
If you decide not to report the crime to police, you can still access help. Victim Support NI is here for you and can give you emotional support and practical advice to help you recover from the impact of crime and move on with your life. Victim Support NI works in partnership with a range of specialist organisations who can provide you with the necessary support and information YOU need, dependant on your individual needs.
If you do decide to report to police, you can get an idea of what this might lead to by watching our videos. The first animation details what may happen during a police investigation and takes you up to the point at which a decision is made about whether the case can be prosecuted. The second animation shows what might happen if your case goes to court.
More information about particular points of the journey from crime to court, and the different organisations and agencies involved can be accessed via our Victim’s Journey flowchart below.
Your Rights 
Get Support 
Criminal Injuries Compensation 
The Police Investigation 
Decision to Prosecute 
Will Your Case Go To Court? 
Preparing For Court 
Attending Court 
Victim Personal Statement 
The Verdict and Sentencing 
After a Trial 
Victim Information Schemes