Garda
Following the Homicide, a trained Family Liaison Officer (FLO) will be assigned to the case.
The FLO must explain the investigation process to you and make sure that you are kept informed about the progress of the investigation. He/she should ensure that you are referred to any relevant emotional, psychological and practical support. If language is an issue, the FLO will arrange free translation services. You will also be informed about victim support services.
Our experience is that the relationship between you and your FLO is an important and valuable one, but if for any reason you are not fully satisfied with, or have any queries about any aspect of the treatment you receive, you should contact the Garda Victim Liaison Office (GVLO).
The GVLO provides support to the 474 trained Family Liaison Officers who are appointed to victims of crime and their families in serious cases such as homicide.
For more information on the GVLO and phone numbers for all divisional Garda victim service offices go to https://www.garda.ie/
The Garda Victim Liaison Office,
Garda Community Relations Bureau
Garda Headquarters
Harcourt Square
Dublin 2
D02DH 42
Tel: 01 6663880/ 01 6663363
Fax: 01 6663801
Email: crimevictims@garda.ie
When a suspect is charged the FLO will tell you:
- Whether the accused is in custody or on bail and the conditions attached to the bail
- The time, date and location of the court hearings of the charges against the accused
- The prosecution process involved, if you are likely to be called as a witness and the help available to support you
- The circumstances where a Judge may ask for a victim impact statement
- Your entitlement to court expenses
Full information about the role of the Garda and the new developments in their victim support services and networks are available from the Garda Charter for Victims of crime on www.garda.ie