NCJ Number
120359
Date Published
1989
Length
79 pages
Annotation
This survey reviews the findings from 30 State legislatures regarding elderly victims to better inform State legislative drafters and policymakers about activities in other States.
Abstract
A majority of States reported some victim-related legislative activity, mostly amendments to victim-rights laws, none of which weakened original legislation. Governors supported continued refinements and expansion of services to victims, victim compensation, and commitment to the special needs of elderly victims. For example, a Texas task force conducted 16 public hearings throughout the State to improve the State's criminal justice system. Similarly, in Virginia, the State Crime Commission studied victim impact statements and other victim-related issues, and how to allow victims to be present throughout the trial. Responses are summarized State-by-State, listing the issues, detailing the provisions, comments, and implications for elderly victims. Information sources at end of each State's summary, 7 charts.