Victim Witness Program - Federal Laws Affecting Victim Rights
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What are my rights under federal law?
Victims'
Rights
Federal Law - 42 U.S.C. 10606(b)
- The right to be treated with fairness and with respect for the victim's dignity and privacy.
- The right to be reasonably protected from the accused offender.
- The right to be notified of court proceedings.
- The right to be present at all public court proceedings related to the offense, unless the court determines that testimony by the victim would be materially affected if the victim heard other testimony at trial.
- The right to confer with an attorney for the Government in the case.
- The right to restitution.
- The right to information about the conviction, sentencing, imprisonment, and release of the offender.
What other laws affect victim's rights?
In addition to the Victim and Witness Protection Act (VWPA) of 1982, applicable laws include:
- Victims of Crime Act of 1984
- Victims Rights and Restitution Act of 1990
- Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994
- Antiterrorism and Effective Death Penalty Act of 1996
- Victim Rights and Clarification Act of 1997