What are Special Victims Counsel? Special Victims’ Counsel (SVCs) are attorneys who have a duty to represent victims of sexual assault and domestic violence who qualify for services. SVCs deliver victim-centered advice and advocacy through comprehensive, independent representation victims worldwide. They can assist in obtaining support/recovery services, and represent you throughout the military justice process. SVCs advise on and explain the military justice process, accompany victims during law enforcement interviews, help victims obtain military protective orders, and even represent victims in courts-martial proceedings for certain legal issues. SVCs will give you legal advice, discuss options available to you regarding your case, and protect the rights afforded to you by the Uniform Code of Military Justice. Having an SVC does not mean you must participate in a Court Martial or that anything has to happen at all. They are there to provide you with advice so you can be fully informed about all the legal options that are available. SVCs have a duty to represent you and are independent of your chain of command, meaning they will advocate for you and only you in accordance with your wishes. All communications with your SVC are completely confidential so your report can remain restricted if you choose that route.
What support can SVCs now provide to victims of Domestic Violence? As attorneys, SVCs have special training to help assist you through the military justice process. They can give you confidential legal advice about the investigation and your case. They can be your advocate to the legal office, your command, and even the Wing Commander. If your case proceeds to trial, your SVC will advocate to the court on your behalf and be there with you every step of the way to provide you legal advice. Your SVC can ensure you receive appropriate protections from your abuser and can help link you up with other helping agencies.
How Do I get an SVC? For victims of sexual assault, you can apply through SVC office or the Sexual Assault Prevention Response (SAPR) Office. There are other options for reporting and obtaining services, but be aware of who can take a restricted report and who cannot. For victims of domestic violence, you can apply through the SVC office, Family Advocacy, or the Staff Judge Advocate’s Office (ask for the Victim/Witness Assistance Program (VWAP) Coordinator).
What UCMJ offenses qualify for Domestic Violence Representation? Offenses what can qualify you for SVC services as a victim of domestic violence include: Art 118 Attempted Murder, Article 119 Attempted Manslaughter, Art 128(b) Aggravated Assault, Art 128a Maiming, Art 130 Stalking, and any attempts of the offenses listed. This is list is in addition to representation of victims of sexual assault offenses.Even if you are unsure whether you qualify, it is important to talk about your options with Family Advocacy, a Special Victims’ Counsel or Special Victms’ Paralegal.
Contact information for the Special Victims Counsel office: 850-283-9588
Capt Peter Simon, Special Victims’ Counsel, peter.simon.4@us.af.mil
SSgt Mohammad Waziri, Special Victims’ Paralegal, mohammad.waziri.1@us.af.mil