Victims Rights Act 2002

Question 1

What are the responsibilities to the victim of Section 7, Victims Rights Act 2002 ?

Answer 1

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

Question 2

What are the responsibilities to the victim of Section 8, Victims Rights Act 2002 ?

Answer 2

Victims and, where needed, their families should have access to welfare, health, counselling, medical and legal assistance responsive to their needs.

Question 3

What are the responsibilities to the victim of Section 11, Victims Rights Act 2002 ?

Answer 3

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.

Question 4

What are the responsibilities to the victim of Section 12, Victims Rights Act 2002 ?

Answer 4

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.

Question 5

What are the responsibilities to the victim of Section 51, Victims Rights Act 2002 ?

Answer 5

A person’s property (other than property of the defendant) held for evidential purposes must be returned as soon as practicable when it is no longer required as evidence.

Question 6

What is the golden rule ?

Answer 6

Treat victims as you would expect to be treated yourself

Question 7

What are some symptoms of PTSD ?

Answer 7

• Guilt
• Disturbed sleep
• Memory problems
• Flashbacks
• Emotional distress
• Concentration problems
• Startled response

Question 8

What is PTSD ?

Answer 8

It is a serious psychological disorder in which the victim repeatedly re-experiences the events surrounding the offence.