Victim's Bill of Rights

Article I: To be permitted to be present at all criminal justice proceedings.

Article II: To be entitled to a timely disposition of this case.

Article III: To be given prior notification of trial court and appellate Proceedings.

Article IV: To be given information about the sentence, incarceration, or release of the defendant.

Article V: To be heard, upon request, at all criminal justice proceedings considering a plea of guilty, sentencing, incarceration or release of the defendant -- unless manifest injustice would result.

Article VI: To be afforded the opportunity to communicate with the prosecution and to be advised of any proposed Plea agreement by the prosecuting attorney prior to entering into a plea agreement in criminal offenses involving crimes Of violence, sex crimes or crimes against children.

Article VII: To be allowed to refuse an interview or other contact with the defendant or with any other person acting on behalf of the defendant -- unless such request is authorized by law.

Article VIII: To have your stolen or other personal property held by law enforcement agencies returned to you as son As it is no longer needed for evidence.

Article IX: To be notified whenever the defendant is released or escapes from custody.

Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress.