Back to RJ Archive

The victim personal statement: who is the victim?

Brennan, Carol
June 4, 2015

Source: (2001) Web Journal of Current Legal Issues. (4). 28 September. Downloaded 14 October 2005.

The evolution of the recognition of victims’ rights in the criminal justice system has led to the implementation in October 2001 of a policy which gives victims of crime the right to make a statement of the impact of the crime upon them. The precise ambit of the Victim Personal Statement Scheme is unclear in terms of which victims will be included and the use which will be made of their statements. In the resolution of these issues it is necessary to be aware of the implications of the ambiguities around the wide range of meanings of the term ‘victim’ and the way in which this policy also carries with it the potential for divisiveness. Author’s abstract.

Tags:

Abstract
Support the cause

We've Been Restoring Justice for More Than 40 Years

Your donation helps Prison Fellowship International repair the harm caused by crime by emphasizing accountability, forgiveness, and making amends for prisoners and those affected by their actions. When victims, offenders, and community members meet to decide how to do that, the results are transformational.

Donate Now