NCJ Number
204769
Date Published
May 2003
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This booklet offers victims of crime in the United Kingdom information about the criminal justice process and victim compensation.
Abstract
The booklet explains the police process once a crime report is made. Police officers investigate the crime by collecting evidence and then deciding whether or not to charge the suspect. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) is responsible for prosecuting people in England and Wales and considers whether or not prosecuting a suspect would be in the best interest of the public. In terms of victim assistance, police pass along victim contact information to Victim Support, which in turn contacts victims to offer information and support. Next, the booklet explains a victim’s right to privacy regarding the media and release of confidential information. The process of going to court is outlined, followed by an explanation of victim compensation. Information is offered for gaining compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme and from the offender. The court’s role in deciding whether to issue an order of compensation is considered and civil recourse in a separate court is presented as an option for financial compensation. Victims injured as a result of a motor vehicle accident have further recourse to collect compensation from the vehicle owner’s insurance company. A checklist is provided that lists in bulleted format the main steps that occur following a crime report to the police. Next, the booklet offers information on how to prevent certain types of crime. Aspects of the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 are outlined and the use of Anti-Social Behavior Orders and Sex Offender Orders are explained. Finally, the booklet explains how assistance for victims is handled by police, depending on the type of crime suffered.