What are my rights as a victim?
You have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. You should be informed when the defendant is arrested, released from custody, or has escaped. You should be notified about court proceedings - bond hearings, preliminary hearings, arraignments, guilty pleas, jury trials, restitution hearings, etc. and given the opportunity to speak to the judge at the appropriate times. You have the right to meet with the investigating police officer and the prosecutor before the trial. You have the right to have restitution ordered for crime-related losses. If you need help, you have the right to seek the assistance of a victim advocate, a person who can help you understand the many challenges of the criminal justice system. Victim advocates can help through court accompaniment, precourt meetings to address your concerns. You can also apply for funds to help with medical bills, funeral bills, counseling and lost wages through the Victim's Compensation Fund.

Show All Answers

1. What is a Solicitor?
2. What is a bond hearing?
3. What can I do to help with my case?
4. What are first and second appearances?
5. Why does it take so long for cases to come to court?
6. What kinds of cases are heard in Family Court?
7. What are my rights as a victim?
8. What is the Victim's Compensation Fund?
9. What is a preliminary hearing?
10. Can I report a crime to the Solicitor's Office?
11. What is the purpose of a grand jury?
12. What is transfer court?
13. How long do I have to wait for a fraudulent check conviction to be dropped from my record?
14. What is a VIS form?
15. How will I get restitution?
16. How do I get a charge expunged from my criminal record?