Survivors’ Rights Watch

What is Survivors’ Rights Watch?

Survivors’ Rights Watch is a vital initiative of Volare, inspired by court watch programs across the country. Our mission is to safeguard the rights of crime victims by observing proceedings at DC Superior Court and documenting any violations or gaps in support.

But we can’t do it alone.

Volare needs dedicated volunteers to serve as our eyes and ears in the courtroom. Your presence can help uncover systemic issues and bring to light the often-overlooked experiences of survivors navigating the justice system. Together, we can strengthen accountability and advocate for real change in how courts treat crime victims.

Lend your time. Amplify survivors’ voices.

Do I have to be an attorney to participate?

No!

How does this benefit Volare?

Our goal is to use the information collected to create a report on trends and issues that occur in these courtrooms in relation to Crime Victims’ Rights.

How does this benefit survivors of crime in DC?

Victims/Survivors of crime do not have the right to an attorney in the criminal legal system, but they do have rights. Volare does not have the capacity to represent every survivor, but we do want to advocate that all survivors be treated with fairness and respect. By watching criminal courtrooms and reporting back to us on the way survivors are treated we will be able to gather valuable information about how to improve survivor experiences through systemic advocacy.

Are there any prerequisites to volunteering?

We ask that you fill out an interest form and then we will share links to informational materials and a recorded training.

What is the time commitment?

We ask that folks commit to volunteering 3 hours each month. The minimum shift time is one hour.

Folks will select to volunteer to observe either a misdemeanor or felony courtroom for a shift of at least one hour and up to three hours. The courtroom we are prioritizing may change over time, so we will notify you as to which courtrooms you should observe during your shift. We are aiming to collect data on all criminal courtrooms. We have selected our highest priority courtrooms first.

Have more questions? Contact probono@volare-empowers.org!