Crime Victims Bill of Rights

The law in Georgia requires that the Criminal Justice System to allow victims certain rights.

As a Victim of Crime, you have the right to be notified of the following:     

• - Arrest of the person accused of committing the crime against you
• - Availability of victim service programs
• - Availability of compensation for victims of violent crimes
• - Any court hearing where release of the accused will be considered
• - Court proceedings during the prosecution of the case
• - Motion for new trial or appeal hearings
• - Parole or change in status after the completion of any court ordered sentence

As a Victim of Crime, you have the Right to:

• - Express your opinion on the release of the defendant pending court proceedings
• - Express your views on the outcome of the case prior to plea negotiations or sentencing of the defendant
• - Complete a Victim Impact Statement utilized by the Assistant District Attorney and the Court
• - A separate and secure waiting area during any court proceeding.  If you are required to attend court, you will be escorted throughout the Courthouse by member of the District Attorney’s Office staff and to a separate, safe area, away from the defendant or the defendant’s family.