Traditionally, the needs of crime victims have gained greater emphasis in correctional organizations throughout the nation through the post-sentencing phase. Historically, the focus of victim services was placed on the trial and sentencing phases.

Federal laws have begun to expand the scope of victims' rights by addressing victim notification, victim impact statements, protection, and restitution throughout the correctional process.

To this end, the New Jersey Department of Corrections specifically established the Office of Victim Services (OVS) in the year 2000 in order to strengthen the Department's role in responding to the needs of victims of crime.