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Official website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

    The .gov means it's official.

    Local, state, and federal government websites often end in .gov. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania government websites and email systems use "pennsylvania.gov" or "pa.gov" at the end of the address. Before sharing sensitive or personal information, make sure you're on an official state website. 

    Office of Victim Advocate

    The Office of Victim Advocate (OVA) is the state agency with the duty and authority to advocate for the individual and collective rights and needs of crime survivors.

    Crime Victims Rights
    Office of Victim Advocate

    Supporting Victims. Elevating Crime Victims' Rights.

    The Office of Victim Advocate (OVA) is the state agency with the authority and duty to advocate for the rights and needs of crime victims. We accomplish our mission through victim services and restorative justice programs that promote pathways to hope, resilience and healing.

    What is OVA?

    An introduction to the Office of Victim Advocate and the services we provide.

    Additional Resources

    Crime Victims' Rights

    Crime Victims' Rights

    Victims of crime in Pennsylvania have rights throughout the various stages of the criminal justice process. Some crime victim’s rights violations can be addressed in court by filing a motion. A crime survivor can file the motion on their own or the Prosecutor could file a motion on behalf of the victim.

    Stay Up to Date

    OVA Newsletter

    OVA sends a monthly electronic newsletter that includes survivor voices, education on crime victims’ rights, upcoming events, training opportunities and useful tools to help with your self-care. To stay up to date with the latest information, sign up today.

    Contact OVA

    Call Us

    Mon. - Fri. 8:00am - 4:00pm

    800-563-6399

    Email Us

    ra-ovainfo@pa.gov

    OVA Contact Form

    OVA Contact Form