OFFICE OF THE STATE ATTORNEY

      7TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

Victim Rights

The victim of a crime and/or the State Attorney, with the consent of the victim, can assert the rights of a crime victim which are provided by law and Art. 1, S. 16(b) of the State Constitution.

The following is a list of the rights available to victims:

• Victims have the right to be informed by law enforcement or the assisting agency of the right to complete a victim notification card

• Information on the role of the victim in the criminal or juvenile justice system

• Notification of arrest, release and/or escape of the accused, when possible

• The right to be informed, present and heard when relevant, at all crucial stages of criminal or juvenile justice proceedings (Includes relatives of homicide victims)

• In the case of incarcerated victims, the right to be informed and to submit written    statements at all crucial stages of the criminal or juvenile proceedings

• Information on steps available to protect victims or witnesses from intimidation

• Notification of scheduling changes

• Advance notice of all court proceedings, if time permits

• The right to have a Victim Advocate present during deposition

• Consultation with the Assistant State Attorney regarding disposition of cases involving certain crimes

• A prompt and timely disposition of the case, to the extent that this right does not interfere with the constitutional rights of the accused

• Assistance in obtaining the return of recovered property unless there is a compelling reason to retain it

• Assistance and information regarding Florida crime victim compensation, restitution and community based resources

• Notification to your employer regarding necessary court appearance and explanation to creditors of serious financial strain caused by victimization

• The right to review a copy of the pre-sentence investigation report

Copyright © 2007 State Attorney's Office
Last modified: February 17, 2010