Help for Crime Victims and Witnesses From the Berks County District Attorney
The Victim/Witness Assistance Unit of the Berks County District Attorney's Office helps victims and witnesses of crime, and their immediate family members, through the court process. Staff act as advocates for the rights of crime victims, and victims can choose their own level of participation in the case, consistent with the law.
The unit provides an explanation of the judicial system, case information and notification, accompaniment to all court proceedings, preparation for court testimony, a secure waiting room, help with written or oral victim impact statements, help completing restitution forms, court tours for children, help filing compensation claims, and referrals to community agencies. In adult offender cases you can enroll in the notification program. In juvenile offender cases the unit helps victims receive apology letters. All services are provided free of charge.
The unit also points victims to more information on the Victim Bill of Rights, financial compensation for losses or damages caused by a crime, criminal case procedures, a brief guide for people serving as a witness, defendant release notification so victims can learn the custody status of an offender in a county jail or state prison, and the Address Confidentiality Program, which the Office of Victim Advocate runs to give you an alternative mailing address so your home address stays out of public records. For victims of juvenile crimes there is also information on the Restitution Incentive Program and the Impact of Crime Class.
The office is at the Services Center, 633 Court Street, 5th Floor, Reading, PA 19601. The phone number is 610-478-6000, and hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. County buildings are closed on holidays.
The page does not say whether you need a referral or an appointment, or what steps to take to start services, so call the office to ask.
Source: berkspa.gov/departments/da/victim-witness, read September 18, 2026.
The details
In Berks County District Attorney's Office’s words
The Victim/Witness Assistance Unit was established to assist victims and witnesses of crime and their immediate family members throughout the judicial justice process. Our mission is to serve as advocates for the enforcement of fundamental rights of crime victims and promote the belief that all victims and witnesses deserve to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect throughout the judicial process. All victims will be afforded, consistent with the law, the ability to choose their level…
Organization
Berks County District Attorney's Office
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This listing summarizes publicly available information from berkspa.gov/departments/da/victim-witness. Last recorded review: September 18, 2026. Contact the provider to confirm eligibility, hours and availability before you go. If something here is wrong, tell us.