This book contains information for survivors of traumatic loss with considerable input from those who work with survivors on a daily basis. The work of professional therapists, psychologists, and grief counselors, while noted as important to the grief process, is not represented in great detail. Practical information is presented from people who have been in the same position as a survivor of traumatic loss. The beginning of the book provides a checklist of basic information, also considered essential guidelines, for immediate use. These guidelines are pursued in greater detail in the next chapter. Additional chapters offer information on more long-term concerns, such as how grief, both short-term and long-term, affects the survivor(s) and what to expect from the police and criminal justice system, ranging from the investigation, unsolved cases, the trial, and the civil justice system (civil liability). It is strongly noted that all the information presented may or may not apply to the survivor's own personal situation. The book offers a place for important contacts, a list of helpful organizations and agencies, books, and other resources, victim and witness rights, and how to help a friend in grief. Appendices