Law enforcement must offer a victim advocate:

• A. Always, regardless of age or willingness to prosecute
• B. Only if the victim requests
• C. Only for minors
• D. Only after the investigation begins

Answer: (A)

Providing victim advocate services to all victims at first contact is the concept at play. Law enforcement must offer a victim advocate to every victim, regardless of age or willingness to prosecute, because advocates provide essential support, information about rights, safety planning, and help navigating the legal process. Offering this support early ensures victims can make informed decisions and participate in the process if they choose, without having to initiate the request themselves. Waiting for a request, limiting it to minors, or offering it only after an investigation begins would create unnecessary barriers and delay crucial assistance that victims deserve from the outset.