Dealing With Victims Flashcards
Define a “Victim”
A person against whom an offence has been committed by another person.
Any person who, through or by means of, an offence committed by another person, suffers physical injury, or loss of, or damage to property.
A parent or guardian of the above. Or a member of the immediate family of a person who, as a result of an offence committed by another person, dies or is incapable.
Anyone who as a result of an offence by another person suffers emotional harm.
What is Section 7 of the Victims Rights Act 2002?
COURTESY AND COMPASSION
Members of the police, prosecutors, judicial officers, counsel, court officials and others dealing with victims should treat them with;
Courtesy, compassion, and respect for their personal dignity and privacy.
What is Section 8 of the Victims Rights Act 2002?
ACCESS TO SERVICES
Victims and, where needed, their families should have access to welfare, health, counselling, medical and legal assistance responsive to their needs.
What is Section 11 of the Victims Rights Act 2002?
INFORM VICTIMS OF SERVICES AVAILABLE
Members of police, officers of the court and health and social services personnel should inform victims at the earliest opportunity of the programmes, services and remedies available to them.
What is Section 12 of the Victims Rights Act 2002?
SUPPLYING INFORMATION
The prosecuting authority must advise the victims of the:
- Progress of the investigation
- charges filed or action taken
- date and place of proceedings
- role of the victim as a witness
- outcome of proceedings
What is the golden rule?
“Treat victims as you would expect to be treated yourself”
What is Section 51 of the Victims Rights Act 2002?
RETURN OF PROPERTY
A persons property (other then property of the defendant) held for evidential purpose must be returned as soon as practicable when it is no longer required as evidence.
