VICTIMS OF CRIME:
Know Your Rights
04/21/06
From April 23-29, the country observes the 26th annual National Crime Victims’ Rights Week...to remember crime victims, to honor those who help and support them, and to spread the word about the many services provided to victims and their families.
It’s a good time to ask: do you know what the rights of crime victims are, what help is available, and where to get that help?
We think you should know. After all, statistics show that two out of three Americans will become crime victims at least once in their lifetime.
Here’s some answers and where to find more information.
First and foremost, know your rights, under federal law, to:
- Be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect for your privacy.
- Be reasonably protected from the accused offender.
- Be notified of court proceedings.
- Be present at all public court proceedings related to the offense, unless the court determines that your testimony would be materially affected if you heard other testimony at trial.
- Confer with the attorney for the government in the case.
- Restitution.
- Information about the conviction, sentencing, imprisonment, and release of the offender.
Most states have similar laws guaranteeing fundamental rights for crime victims.
Second, go to www.crimevictims.gov to learn about the full range of resources available to victims...including a searchable database of public and private agencies that offer assistance, a list of resources by topic, and an interactive map connecting you to crime assistance and compensation programs.
Third, if you are a victim in a case investigated by the FBI, please know that you can contact one of our more than 100 full-time victim specialists across the nation for immediate assistance. For more information, see our Office for Victim Assistance website and our interview with Program Director Kathryn Turman.
Finally, whether you have ever been a crime victim or just want to learn more, please make time to attend ceremonies and events commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in Washington, D.C. or any related activities in your area. And please join us in thanking all those whose compassion and support throughout the year helps crime victims cope and rebuild their lives.
Photos courtesy of the U.S. Department of Justice.
