Victim Rights
Statutory Rights of Crime Victims
As a victim of a Federal Crime, you have the following rights under 18 U.S.C. § 3771(a):
1. The right to be reasonably protected from the accused.
2. The right to reasonable, accurate and timely notice of any public court proceeding, or any parole proceeding, involving the crime or of any release or escape of the accused. However, be advised that the law does not require providing information that may endanger the safety of any person.
3. The right not to be excluded from any such public court proceeding, unless the court, after receiving clear and convincing evidence, determines that testimony by the victim would be materially altered if the victim heard other testimony at that proceeding.
4. The right to be reasonably heard at any public proceeding in the district court involving release, plea, sentencing, or any parole proceeding.
5. The reasonable right to confer with the attorney for the Government in the case.
6. The right to full and timely restitution as provided in law. The right to proceedings free from unreasonable delay.
7. The right to proceedings free from unreasonable delay.
8. The right to be treated with fairness and with respect for the victim's dignity and privacy.
The toll-free number for victims/witnesses is (888) 368-5067.
Victim-Witness Safety
The United States Attorney’s Office understands that being a victim and/or a witness in a federal case may cause concerns for your safety and/or the safety of your family. If an emergency situation arises, call 911 or your local emergency number to reach law enforcement immediately. If you feel you have been threatened or harassed due to your involvement as a victim or witness in a federal case, contact the case agent or Victim-Witness Coordinator to report it.