February 2023 Tips - Monitoring Victims' Rights Information

What are Victims' Rights?

Victims' rights are legal rights afforded to individuals victimized by crime. These rights are designed to protect and empower victims and ensure they are treated fairly throughout the criminal justice process.

These rights vary by jurisdiction, but many countries have established laws or constitutional provisions to protect victims' rights. In the United States, for example, victims' rights are protected by federal and state laws, such as the federal Victims' Rights Act and individual states' victims' rights amendments. Non-governmental organizations also work to advocate for victim's rights and provide support services to victims.

Some common examples of victims' rights include:

1. The right to be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity

2. The right to be informed about the criminal justice process, including their rights as a victim and the status of the case

3. The right to be present and heard at all critical stages of the criminal justice process, including bail hearings, plea negotiations, and sentencing

4. The right to restitution, or compensation for losses suffered as a result of the crime

5. The right to protection from the accused or anyone acting on their behalf

6. The right to participate in parole and pardon proceedings

Monitoring Victims' Rights

In-Synch RMS users can record victims' rights information through the Case Contacts screen in the Case Builder application. There are options for the "Victim Rights Form" and "Victim Compensation Form."

An optional "Victim Rights" application is available for supervisors and administrators to track these forms' distribution.

If you want to learn more about the "Victim Rights" application, please get in touch with the In-Synch Systems help desk at 1-800-243-6540 Extension 1.