VICTIMS RIGHTS
“ VICTIMS’ VOICES: SILENT NO MORE “
THE RIGHTS OF VICTIMS OF CRIME:
CRIME VICTIM SERVICES
(800) 983 - 9933
ACCORDING TO THE CODE OF CRIMINAL PROCEDURE (CCP). CHAPTER 56. RIGHTS OF CRIME VICTIMS, A VICTIM OF VIOLENT CRIME IS
someone who is the victim of sexual assault, kidnapping, aggravated robbery, trafficking of persons or who has suffered personal injury or death because of the criminal conduct of another.
the close relative (spouse, parent, adult brother or sister. or child) of a deceased victim, or
the guardian of a victim.
These rights also apply to victims of juvenile crime, including victims who supper property loss.
VICTIMS OF CRIME HAVE THE RIGHT TO:
receive adequate protection from harm and threats of harm arising from cooperation with prosecution efforts.
have their safety considered by the magistrate when setting bail.
receive information, on request, of relevant court proceedings, including appellate proceedings, cancellations and rescheduling prior to the event, and of appellate court decisions after the decisions are entered, but before they are made public.
be informed, when requested, by a peace officer about the defendant’s right to bail and criminal investigation procedures, and from the prosecutor’s office about general procedures in the criminal justice system, including plea agreements, appeals, and parole.
provide pertinent information concerning the impact of the crime to the probation department prior to sentencing.
information about the Texas Crime Victims’ compensation fund and payment for a medical examination for a victim of sexual assault. and on request, referral to social service agencies that provide additional assistance.
information, on request about parole procedures, notification of parole proceedings and the inmate’s release, and the right to participate in the parole process by submitting written information to the Board of Pardons and Paroles for inclusion in the defendant’s file for consideration by the Board prior to parole.
a separate or secure waiting area at all public court proceedings.
prompt return of any property that is no longer needed as evidence.
have the prosecutor notify, upon request. an employer that the need for the victim’s testimony may involve the victim’s absence from work.
on request, the right to counseling and testing regarding AIDS and HIV infection and testing for victims of sexual assault.
request victim-offender mediation coordinated by the Victim Services Division of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.
be informed of the use and purpose of a victim impact statement to complete a victim impact statement and to have the statement considered before sentencing and acceptance of a plea bargain and before an inmate is released on parole.
A victim, guardian of a victim, or close relative of a deceased victim is entitled to be present at all public court proceedings, with the consent of the presiding judge.
A judge, attorney for the state, peace officer, or law enforcement is not liable for a failure or inability to provide a right enumerated herein.
Art56.045 CCP states that a victim of a sexual assault has the right to the accompaniment of a victim advocate during the sexual assault exam if an advocate is available at the time of the examination.
Please call your crime victim rights contacts in law enforcement and the prosecutor’s office for more information about victim rights in your community.
DID YOU KNOW
after a rape or sexual assault…
You can go to the hospital and NOT report to the police
Evidence can be collected up to 5 days and will be held up to 6 months whether or not you decide to report to the police
Testing for Data Rape Drugs can be done from 24 hrs up to 72 hrs
Medications to prevent STD’s and Pregnancy need to be started within 72 hours
A rape crisis counselor can go with you to the hospital
Everything you do/don’t do is
YOUR CHOICE
PROVIDED BY THE CRIME VICTIM SERVICES DIVISION OF THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL.