NCJ Number
209873
Date Published
August 2001
Length
36 pages
Annotation
This report presents model guidelines for prosecutors to ensure the protection and respect to child victims and witnesses in the criminal justice system and provides examples on guideline implementation.
Abstract
In an attempt to provide a practical tool for the effective prosecution of crimes against children and the treatment of child victims and witnesses in a manner which is respectful of their rights and need, model guidelines were developed. This report presents an annotated version of these guidelines used at a workshop at the 2001 Sixth Annual Meeting of the International Association of Prosecutors, held in Australia. The guidelines were developed as a result of responses received from 19 countries. The guidelines assist states in mobilizing their criminal justice systems, assist heads of prosecution units who are responsible for establishing policy, and assist individual prosecutors in their day-to-day practice. This annotated version of the guidelines contains examples from different jurisdictions as to how the guidelines can be practically implemented in various jurisdictions. The guidelines are divided into nine specific areas and include: (1) general principles; (2) case management and training; (3) pre-trial decisions; (4) case preparation; (5) trial procedures; (6) sentencing; (7) services to the child and multi-disciplinary teams; (8) international cooperation and assistance; and (9) implementation and monitoring.