Judge advocates general held a training symposium in San Diego last week to stay up-to-date on Victims' Legal Counsel procedures during Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Awareness Month.

The Navy's Victims' Legal Counsel Program was established in October 2013 to provide survivors of a military sexual assault with a dedicated attorney to help victims understand the investigation and military justice process, guard their legal rights and interests, and obtain additional support in accessing resources that may assist in their recovery.

"This training is important, not only during [Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention] Month, but yearround," said Judge Advocate General Lt. Adrienne Baldoni. "Many commanders, senior enlisted and even other judge advocates expect us to be the experts in this area of law. We hold that duty in the highest of regard and are constantly working to meet the demand."

The VLC complements the care and support victims already receive through sexual assault response coordinators, victim advocates and Family Advocacy Program personnel by providing legal counsel and advice on sexual offense reporting options as well as legal support during the investigation and disciplinary processing of those reports.

"The program has grown dramatically over the past two and a half years so there was a lot of discourse among attorneys on best practices and how the program can improve," said Baldoni.

"Program growth and development was by far the biggest outcome of the training."

Officers and enlisted personnel are dedicated and proud of the work that they can provide for their clients.

"We just had our VLC symposium and it was a very unique and rewarding experience," said Yeoman 1st Class Tiffany Anaba. "As their enlisted support, it was amazing seeing the JAGs come together and discuss how to make this program better and different ways to help their clients."

Sexual assault victims who wish to seek assistance may find their local VLC here: http://www.jag.navy.mil/legal_services/vlc.htm

For more news from Navy Public Affairs Support Element, visit www.navy.mil/