“All through the previous decade, VLCP has been on the forefront of sufferer advocacy, tirelessly championing warfighter and civilian purchasers’ rights at each step within the army justice course of, whereas concurrently increasing the boundaries of sufferer authorized illustration, each in and out of doors the courtroom,” mentioned Rear Adm. David G. Wilson, commander of Naval Authorized Service Command, which oversees this system. “VLCP has helped the Navy fulfill its promise to guard its Most worthy asset – resilient and combat-ready Sailors.”
The birthday ceremony included VLCP crew members – decide advocates, civilian authorized consultants, and yeoman – in addition to different JAG Corps personnel, and it featured remarks and a cake slicing. Wilson, alongside VLCP Chief Capt. Daniel Cimmino, mirrored upon VLCP’s accomplishments in the course of the previous 10 years and the myriad methods this system has superior Sailor and Fleet readiness.
In August 2013, then-Secretary of Protection Chuck Hagel directed the respective chiefs of the army companies to, “set up a victims’ advocacy program greatest suited to that Service that gives authorized recommendation and illustration to the sufferer all through the justice course of.” The directive targeted on addressing the beforehand unmet authorized wants of “eligible sexual assault victims.”
Within the following months, the Navy JAG Corps constructed a robust basis for VLCP, establishing a transparent mission, assembling a cohesive organizational construction, creating sound insurance policies and practices, and buying and coaching personnel with the required credentials and capabilities for this vital work.
Initially comprised of solely 30 energetic obligation and Reserve attorneys in 23 areas, VLCP has since expanded right into a flourishing enterprise of 48 attorneys, 10 yeoman, and 6 civilian paralegals stationed at 28 areas across the globe, together with workplaces within the U.S., Japan, Guam, Italy, Spain, and Bahrain. Along with its in depth progress in personnel, VLCP expanded eligibility for its companies in 2020 to incorporate victims of home violence.
Up to now, VLCP has offered devoted authorized illustration to greater than 8,000 purchasers, which incorporates energetic and Reserve service members, retirees, and dependents. It has delivered round the clock, free-of-charge help, serving to victims perceive the investigation and army justice processes, guarding their authorized rights and pursuits, and connecting them to sources that advance their restoration.
“The members of the VLCP crew – at the moment, and in years previous – characterize the very best of the JAG Corps and the broader Navy. These expert professionals have been trustworthy stewards of the legislation, and helped guarantee good order and self-discipline throughout the Fleet,” mentioned Cimmino. “I’m each happy with how far VLCP has come and excited for the way forward for this exemplary program.”
Throughout the previous decade, VLCP’s accomplishments have been plentiful. This system has revamped Navy directions associated to expedited transfers, administrative separations, and army protecting orders. It
has carefully collaborated with particular victims’ counsel from different army branches to reassess and improve victims’ rights and companies throughout the Division of Protection. VLCP personnel have dealt with authorized points with nationwide implications, from submitting an amicus temporary with the U.S. Supreme Courtroom, to proposing legislative and coverage adjustments, to advocating broadly for the safety of victims’ non-public medical info.
To study extra about VLCP – together with workplace areas and reply to often requested questions – go to https://www.jag.navy.mil/legal-services/vlc/.
To study extra in regards to the Navy JAG Corps and Naval Authorized Service Command – and the authorized help they ship to the Fleet, in addition to Sailors and their households – go to https://www.jag.navy.mil/.
