Finding psychosocial trial support
Criminal proceedings can be very stressful for those affected. Psychosocial trial support offers you reliable support - before, during and after the main hearing. Specially trained professionals accompany you through the entire process, provide information about procedures and stand by your side. Particularly vulnerable people are entitled to this form of support so that they can find their way around better and are relieved.
You can apply to the court for the appointment of a companion during the preliminary proceedings. If the court orders an escort, this is free of charge for the victim because in this case the state treasury bears the costs.
Who can help me?
To find a psychosocial court counselor, you can contact victim support services, the local police station or your legal counsel. On the victim protection portal, you will find all of the trial counselors approved in NRW, listed according to the respective regional court district. (Note: how do I find the right district court for my place of residence?)
If you need help with your search, the North Rhine-Westphalia Victims' Commissioner will be happy to provide you with advice and assistance.
You can reach the Victims' Advocate team on the victims' hotline: 0800 - 3345667 or by email: poststelle[at]opferbeauftragte.nrw.de (poststelle[at]opferbeauftragte[dot]nrw[dot]de).