Victim Impact Statements
You, or your relatives, who have been involved in serious crimes, will be given the opportunity to make a written statement that tells the court how the crime affected you – physically, emotionally and financially.
Victim impact statements will normally be given to the court if the defendant pleads guilty, or is found guilty after a trial and will be considered before the defendant is sentenced. A copy of any victim impact statement will be given to the defense at the same time. The judge must take into account any victim impact statement when deciding on the sentence.
It is up to you whether or not you make a victim impact statement. You do not have to make one. If you choose not to, information about the impact of the crime can still be brought out during the prosecution part of the case. If needed, an advocate from a local Victim Service Program will help you.