The Figcs of A Victim

Question 1

The right to be informed about proceedings

Answer 1

The Victims Charter 2006
recognises the persons adversity affected by crime are entitled to certain information about the proceedings and the criminal justice system.

The Victims Charter requires investigatory agencies, prosecuting agencies and victims service agencies to provide clear, timely and consistent information about the support services, possible compensation entitlements and the status of the investigation.

This is done as the victim will often want to be informed about what the accused has been charged with, the verdict and the sanction imposed as they want to see justice done

Question 2

The right to be informed about the likely release date of the accused

Answer 2

Under section 17 of the Victims Charter Act a person who is a victim of a criminal act of violence may apply to be included on the victims register. ( a maintained database by the state of Victoria set up to provide victims and victims family members with relevant information about the accused/prisoner). From the victims register, information including the likely release/parole, sentence length, escape must be provided (within 14 days )

Question 3

The right to give evidence as a vulnerable witness

Answer 3

The criminal procedures act ensures that vulnerable individuals (an individual who gives evidence and is at threat both physically and emotionally from the accused)
Are protected when giving evidence; through the use of special provisions and protections in order to enable them to give evidence in court such as

alternative arrangements ( screens, cctv )

protected witness declarations( only to be cross examined by the defence attorney not the accused)

special arrangements (only authorised people in the court room) 
This is done as it ensures the evidence of the witness is not jeopardised, which could lead to an unfair outcome in which the victim hasn’t been able to present their best case forward.