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Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the Victim Advocacy Program?
    The Victim Advocacy Program is a service of the Dean of Students Office that provides confidential 24-hour crisis intervention services to the campus community. The primary role of victim advocacy is to intervene on behalf of persons impacted by trauma, crime or victimization and to assist them in surviving the experience and rebuilding their life. This includes representing the survivors’ interests regarding any needs, problems or concerns resulting from the victimization.
  • Who should be referred for assistance?
    Victim advocacy services are available to all members of the university community - students, faculty, staff and visitors to campus - who have been the victim of a crime, regardless of whether or not a report was filed with law enforcement. 
  • When should someone be referred?
    Information regarding the Victim Advocacy Program should be provided to anyone who presents information that they have been a victim of actual or threatened violence. Individuals may also be referred who have experienced past victimizations and are still dealing with the effects of the event(s).
  • Why should a referral be made?
    Advocates are a static resource for victims from the initial point of contact throughout the recovery process. Advocates provide emotional support, explain rights and options, and coordinate services for the victim. Furthermore, victims may find it easier to speak to an advocate than to talk to someone they know about what they have experienced.
  • How can I contact the Victim Advocacy Program?
    The Victim Advocacy Program is housed in the Dean of Students Office - bldg 57, suite 2701. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. You may stop by during office hours or call (904) 620-1491 or email: deanofstudents@unf.edu to schedule an appointment. To speak to an advocate after hours, contact the 24-Hour Crisis Helpline, (904) 620-1010.
  • What are some examples of victimizations that the program can assist with?

    Services are available to persons who have experienced actual or threatened violence including:

    • Assault
    • Battery
    • Dating/Relationship Violence
    • Domestic Violence
    • Harassment
    • Robbery
    • Sexual Assault/Rape
    • Stalking
    • Prior Victimizations
  • Are the services confidential?
    Yes. Information regarding individuals who utilize advocacy services is kept confidential. If an individual is a danger to their self or others, information is released to provide assistance.
  • Can I receive assistance if I am in a same-gender relationship?
    Yes. Our program provides services to all members of the UNF community without exception. Advocates do not discriminate on the basis of age, citizenship, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation or veteran status.  
  • What if I need to speak to someone after hours?
    A victim advocate is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To speak to an advocate contact the 24-Hour Crisis Helpline, (904) 620-1010.
  • Is help available if the victimization occurred off campus?
    Yes. Advocates provide services to all UNF community members regardless of where the victimization occurred. 
  • Do victims have rights?

    Florida Statutes 960 outlines victim rights. These rights include: the right to be informed, present and heard at all crucial stages of the judicial proceeding.

    Please also see Article 1, Section 16(b)Florida Constitution.