Court Accompaniment
What We Can Do In Court
WOAR’s Court Advocates provide help to child and adult sexual abuse and sexual assault survivors at all stages of the court process. The courtroom can be confusing and frightening, and court procedures can be hard to understand. WOAR Court Advocates provide court accompaniment, emotional support, legal information, and advocacy.
WOAR Court Advocates and Assistant District Attorneys work together to provide reassurance and support to child, teen, and adult survivors. Additionally, we can assist with counseling referrals.
You can identify WOAR Court Advocates by their ID badges. If you do not see the WOAR Court Advocate in the courtroom when you arrive, he/she may be assisting someone else. Let your ADA know that you would like to speak to an advocate and he/she will direct the advocate to you.
In some cases, family members of the victim/witness may be sequestered (removed from the courtroom) during the testimony of the victim/witness. The anxiety and stress of being away from the witness can be lessened, knowing that she or he has the comforting and caring presence of the WOAR Court Advocates.
If you have any questions, please contact us!
Emily Scally
WOAR Court Advocate – Family Court and Criminal Justice Center (Monday – Friday)
Emily can be reached via phone at 215-985-3315 extension 196 or email
Emani Smith
WOAR Court Advocate – Criminal Justice Center (Monday-Friday)
Emani can be reached via phone at 215-985-3315 extension 169 or email
What If I Am Being Harassed?
Inside of Courthouse: If you are harassed by the defendant or his/her family or friends, you must report it immediately to the ADA or a WOAR Court Advocate.
Outside of Courthouse: If you are harassed by the defendant or his/her family or friends anywhere outside of the courtroom (for example in your neighborhood or by phone), you must contact your Special Victims Unit Officer and your ADA. Try to keep a detailed list of any and all instances of physical or verbal harassment including date and time.