Definition of a Victim
The Attorney General's Guidelines for Victim and Witness Assistance define a victim as a person that has suffered direct physical, emotional, or pecuniary harm as a result of the commission of a federal crime. If the victim is a non-governmental institution, such as a bank or corporation, this definition includes a representative of that institution. Government agencies are not considered victims for the purpose of victim services but federal government employees who are harmed in the performance of their duties are considered victims. If the victim is deceased, under 18 years of age, incompetent or incapacitated, this definition includes one of the following persons (in order of preference):
- a spouse;
- a legal guardian;
- a parent;
- a child;
- a sibling;
- another family member; or
- another person designated by the court.
A person who is culpable for the crime being investigated or prosecurted is not considered a victim for purposes of victrim rights and services.