These myths include: victims with ties to the offender do not know what they want from the court and are reluctant to cooperate with court officials; court officials would just as soon not be bothered with these cases and are insensitive to victims' needs; and the same disputes return to the criminal arena over and over, often escalating into serious violence or death. These myths each contain some truth, but each presents an oversimplified view of a complex set of problems. Tables and 14 references are supplied. (Author abstract modified)