The Special Victim’s Counsel’s (SVC) mission is to provide victims of sexual assault with confidential legal representation related to issues that may arise as a result of being sexually assaulted. These services are free of charge. SVCs can answer questions about investigations and the legal process; including filing a restricted or unrestricted report, and the right not to make a statement. Conversations with the SVC are privileged and confidential, meaning that generally, the SVC cannot reveal anything without a client’s permission, including a Soldier’s chain of command, law enforcement, other attorneys, the SARC or UVA, or anyone else.
The SVC may provide the following services:
- Accompany clients to and advise during interviews, examinations, hearings, and court-martial proceedings.
- Represent a client’s interests in a court-martial as permitted by law.
- Refer clients to the Trial Defense Service for collateral misconduct, if necessary.
- Advocate for a client’s interest with Government counsel on disposition options.
- Assist clients with post-trial submissions to include victim impact statements.
- Advise clients on collateral civil issues arising from the crime.
- Provide Legal Assistance services.
Soldiers may speak with a SVC at anytime during the legal, medical, or investigative process. SVCs are available by appointment and walk-ins in the Grafenwoehr Legal Assistance Office on Tower Barracks.