We are at 1201 Franklin on the second floor. Exit the elevator and take a left. At the end of the hallway, take a right into Victim Services.

Here's a map to the building.

It can take years for some criminal cases to be completed. Please know that regardless of how long the process takes, your case is important to us and our team is here to assist you in any way we can.

We use a language service to communicate in almost any language, including American Sign Language. We have caseworkers who speak a variety of languages.

You may call us at 713-274-1900 and our staff will connect you with the prosecutor assigned to your case.

In most cases the prosecutor in the case will present a sentencing offer, which could be prison time or probation. This decision is based on a full evaluation of the applicable laws and facts of the case, including the opinion of the victim or the guardian of the victim.

If the defendant chooses to decline the State’s offer, then in some cases they can plea to be sentenced by a judge or exercise their right to a jury trial. If the case is goes to trial and the defendant is found guilty by the jury, the defendant may choose to be sentenced by the judge or the jury.

To obtain a protective order, you will first meet with a specially trained domestic violence caseworker or social worker who will assist you with documenting a statement and preparing a file for review by a domestic violence prosecutor. Upon prosecutor approval, an application is filed in family court. You will then receive a letter regarding a court date. It is imperative to attend the court hearing in person or your case may be dismissed. View more information on protective orders here.

A MOEP can be requested once a defendant has been charged with a family violence crime and has been arrested. They can be requested by the victim, law enforcement or the prosecutor and is only issued if a criminal case has been filed. MOEPs are generally active for 61-91 days depending on the type of case filed and are active even if a criminal case is dismissed.

If you believe you are in immediate danger, call 911.

• Choose a safe place to go if you leave your home.
• Practice getting out of your home safely by identifying escape routes.
• Pack a bag and keep it at the home of a close relative or friend.
• Identify one or more neighbors who you can ask to call the police if they hear a disturbance coming from your home.
• Devise a code word or signal to use with your children, family, friends and neighbors when you need the police.
• If you believe an argument or incident is going to occur, leave if possible. If not, try to move to a room where you have access to an exit and/or a phone. Stay away from any room without an outside door or window or a room with items that could be used as weapons such as a kitchen or garage.
• Use your own instincts and judgment. If the situation is very dangerous, do whatever is necessary to be safe. This may mean giving the abuser what they want to calm them down.
• If possible, keep your cell phone with you at all times.