We’re Here to Help
We understand that being the victim of a crime can be traumatic, confusing, and overwhelming. Our Victim's Advocate is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you have access to resources, emotional support, and the information you need to navigate the legal system.
What We Do
Our Victim Advocate is available to assist individuals and families affected by crime. Whether or not charges are filed, we're here for you. Services are free of charge and include:
- Crisis intervention & emotional support
- Assistance with safety planning
- Guidance through the legal process
- Court accompaniment
- Help with filing for SC Crime Victim Compensation
- Referrals to counseling, shelter, and support groups
- Support with protective orders and victim impact statements
- Assistance with completing restraining order and protection order forms
Know Your Rights
Under the South Carolina Constitution, crime victims have the right to justice and due process, regardless of race, sex, age, religion, or economic status. Our Victim Advocate will help you understand and assert these rights. As a victim of crime in South Carolina, you have the right to:
- Be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity
- Be free from intimidation or harm throughout the criminal and juvenile justice process
- Be informed about your rights as a victim
- Be reasonably informed about criminal proceedings
- Be notified if the accused is arrested, released, or escapes
- Confer with the prosecution before the case is heard in court
- Be present at criminal proceedings where the accused has the right to be present
- Be heard at proceedings involving bond, bail, release, pleas, or sentencing
- Have reasonable access to documents related to the crime prior to trial
- Receive restitution from adult or juvenile offenders
- Expect a reasonable, prompt, and final conclusion of the case
- Consult with a lawyer for assistance with restraining and protection orders
Confidentiality & Support
All conversations with our Victim Advocate are confidential to the extent allowed by law. We are here to support you, not to judge or pressure you. Whether or not you choose to pursue legal action, you deserve safety, dignity, and healing.
Contact our Victim Advocate
If it is an emergency, dial 911
Sam Barbare, Victim Advocate
Phone: Police Records: (843) 747-5711 Office: (843) 302-8581
Email: samantha.barbare [at] cityofhanahan.com (samantha[dot]barbare[at]cityofhanahan[dot]com)
Address: 1255 Yeamans Hall Rd, Hanahan, SC 29410
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M.
Helpful Resources
SC Victim Assistance Network: 803-750-1200
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
National Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-4673
My Sister's House Hotline: 1-800-273-4673
Department of Social Services: 843-761-8044