Victim Assistance

Chief of Victim Services Jacqueline Herrera wearing yellow shirt and a microphone in her hand

The Lake County State’s Attorney Office makes helping victims of crime one of its main priorities. Victim input and witness testimony is essential to the successful prosecution of a criminal case. Providing victims with information and social service referrals is a responsibility the office takes seriously and is reinforced by the Illinois Rights of Crime Victims and Witnesses Act. 

In 2021, State’s Attorney Rinehart created the “Chief of Victims Services” position. This position is occupied by an attorney who ensures the office follows the Victims’ Bill of Rights across of its divisions. The Chief also ensures the office provides excellent legal services to support victims. 

The Lake County State’s Attorney Victim Assistance Unit was created in 1982 to serve crime victims and to assure that the rights of victims are enforced. 

 The office’s Victim Witness Assistance Unit has specially trained and experienced professionals assigned to assist all violent crime victims. Specialists assist victims of violent and non-violent crimes i.e.: 

  • Murders
  • Armed violence
  • Aggravated battery
  • Domestic violence
  • Sexual assault
  • Child sexual abuse
  • Reckless homicide
  • Aggravated DUI
  • Elder abuse,
  • Identity theft
  • Misdemeanors, etc.

The State’s Attorney’s Office takes the rights of victims very seriously. If you are a victim, and have positive or negative feedback on how your case was or is being handled, please fill out this form and someone will contact you.