Rights of victims Flashcards
What are the 3 rights of victims
Give evidence as a vulnerable witness
Be informed about proceedings
Be informed of the likely release date of the accused
What is right to give evidence as a vunerable witness and give 2 examples of alternative arrangements
A vulnerable witness is a person who is required to give evidence in a criminal case and is considered to be at risk. This might be a child, a person who has a cognitive impairment or the victim of a sexual offence
Alternative arrangements are:
.Give evidence via closed-circuit television
.Screens
.Support person
.Certain people allowed in courtroom
.Legal practitioners may not be required to be formally .dressed in robes while asking witnesses questions
What is right to be informed about proceedings
The Victims’ Charter recognises that persons adversely affected by crime are entitled certain information about the proceedings and about the criminal justice system. However, information that may jeopardise the investigation cannot be given. Also the victim may choose not to receive information.
What is right to be informed of likely release date of the accused
A person who is a victim of a criminal act of violence may apply to be included in the Victims Register. A person is on the Victims Register may receive certain information about the offender who has been imprisoned.
