Skip to main content

Victim & Witness Services (VWS)

As a high priority, the Illinois Prisoner Review Board has established a specialized Victim & Witness Services Unit to assist victims of crime. Any victim or victim's family member who would like to be notified of custody status and post-conviction hearings must submit a notification request. The registration form can be completed electronically by clicking the following link, filling it out, and clicking the Submit button to automatically email the completed form to the Victim & Witness Services Unit.

How to Register

To receive notifications, you must complete a request form.
✅ Step 1: Click the link below
✅ Step 2: Fill out the form
✅ Step 3: Click Submit to email it to the Victim & Witness Services Unit
 

Keep Your Contact Information Updated!
If you move and would still like to receive updates, it is very important to contact the Victim & Witness Services Unit. This helps keep your information up to date so you do not miss any notifications.
 

Victim Statements

What is a victim statement?

A victim statement allows victims and their families to participate by giving them a voice in the post-conviction process and sharing the impact the crime has had on them. The Prisoner Review Board reads and carefully considers these statements to better understand the impact of the crime.

How can I submit a statement?

You can send a victim statement by:

  • Mail
  • Email
  • Pre-recorded video
  • Speaking in person at a hearing

You can also request that your statement be kept confidential.

Spanish-speaking staff are available. If needed, they can assist with translation or interpretation during hearings. Interpreter services for additional languages are available upon request. Please contact us to arrange these services. 

Where to Send Your Statement

Mailing Address:

Illinois Prisoner Review Board
Victim & Witness Services
1001 North Walnut Street
Springfield, Illinois 62702

Email: prb.victimservices@illinois.gov

Phone: 1-217-782-7273 or 1-800-801-9110

 

More information click here: Victim Statements

Resources

We offer helpful information and tools to support you. Click below to learn more:

 

📘 Post-Conviction Definitions

Understand common terms used in the post-conviction process in clear, simple language.

➡️ Learn Key Post-Conviction Terms

 

📜 Victims' Rights

Understand your rights as a victim under Illinois law.

➡️ Learn about Victims' Rights

 

🛡️ Safety Planning

Tips and tools to help you stay safe in difficult situations.

➡️ View Safety Planning Resources

 

🔔 VINE Notifications

Sign up for VINE (Victim Information and Notification Everyday) through the Illinois Attorney General’s Office to get updates on the custody status of an individual.

➡️ Register for VINE

 

📍 Statewide Support Services

Find local and statewide organizations that offer help, counseling, and support.

➡️ View Support Services List

 

 

Need Help?

You can call or email the VWS if you have questions or need help with:

  • Submitting a victim statement
  • Registering to receive notifications
  • Getting updates on release dates or hearings
  • Asking for special release conditions (like No Contact orders)

 

VWS staff are here to support victims and witnesses every day.

Email: prb.victimservices@illinois.gov
Phone: 1-217-782-7273 or 1-800-801-9110