Victims of Crime
A crime victim is never required to retain a private attorney. For some victims however, the legal system can be overwhelming. The physical and emotional stress of going to court, meeting with law enforcement, prosecutors and court staff can be confusing and exhausting. Due to the overloaded criminal justice system, crime victims sometimes feel marginalized and their opinions irrelevant to the outcome of the case. Other victims experience stress and anxiety stemming from concerns that the perpetrator won’t be held accountable for their actions.
Individuals, organizations and families routinely engage our team to provide representation when they have been victimized. Past clients have felt a measure of relief to have someone who can explain the process, the court actions and answer their questions in an unhurried and comprehensive manner. Likewise, our clients have gained confidence in outcome based on Doug’s involvement and advocacy.
We often conduct an independent investigation to ensure law enforcement and prosecutors have an accurate understanding of the nature and seriousness of the offense. Our team ensures all of the relevant evidence is gathered and given appropriate consideration. Most importantly, we serve as a forceful advocate to safeguard the victim’s opinions and interest in justice. When necessary, Doug meets with prosecutors to push for an appropriate resolution to the criminal case consistent with his victim-client’s views and desires.
Examples of Our Advocacy for Victims of Crime
Embezzlement
When a Veteran’s charity discovered embezzlement by a former employee, they engaged O’Connell West, PLLC to steer them through the legal process. When we felt the case was not being given the appropriate level of attention, we demanded meetings with senior prosecutors and pushed for action.
Aggravated Sexual Assault
In one of the most traumatic types of cases, our team took aggressive steps to ensure the prosecutors, defense attorney, and Court understood the victim’s resolve and commitment to justice. Despite the case dragging on for nearly a year, our lawyers were always present to observe Court settings – guaranteeing that the case would not fall through the cracks or be plea bargained down to a slap on the wrist.
Stalking and Harassment
When the government failed to act, we successfully brought a court action on behalf of the victim for the stalker’s violation of a protective order.
Theft and Fraud
Our team is often engaged to investigate complex cases where hard working people were swindled out of large sums of money. Bringing in investigators, auditors and accountants as necessary, we develop the evidence and when appropriate, presents the case to prosecutors in a near trial ready posture.
Family Violence
When the system seemed to fail, and a young woman and her child were caught in an ongoing cycle of domestic violence, our guidance helped provide a clear legal strategy that allowed her to escape with her child and start a new life.
Murder
When their son was gunned down on 6th street in Austin, Texas a grieving family turned to O’Connell West to help them fight for justice.
Sexual Assault
O’Connell West, PLLC routinely represents victims of sexual assault in both the criminal justice system and in civil courts. We help sexual assault victims reclaim their power and start on the road to healing.