NCJ Number
153283
Date Published
1993
Length
53 pages
Annotation
This document presents and explains the text of the Uniform Victims of Crime Act, which was approved by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws in 1992 and the American Bar Association in 1993 and is designed to provide effective, comprehensive, and systematic actions in the best interests of crime victims.
Abstract
The law is consistent with recent changes in Federal laws and aims to accommodate both victims' needs and defendants' constitutional rights. General provisions define terms used and requires the prosecutor to enforce compliance with the law. Sections 201 through 216 require designated agencies to protect the victim's rights to disclosure of information, speedy prosecution, conferring about important decisions, presence at court proceedings, prompt return of property, freedom from employment discipline, participation in the presentence investigation, presentation of victim impact statements, and receiving information about victim services and other topics. Other sections focus on victim compensation, reparation, and technical issues such as the effective date.