Victims Rights

CRIME VICTIMS HAVE RIGHTS - Crime Victims Bill of Rights - OCGA §17-17-1 

As a victim of a crime, you have the right to be notified of:

  • The arrest and release of the accused
  • The availability of victim service programs
  • The availability of compensation for victims of violent crimes, Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Application
  • Court proceedings during prosecution of the case
  • The right to be heard at any scheduled court proceedings involving the release, plea, or sentencing of the accused, Victim Impact Statement
  • The right to restitution as provided by law, Restitution Request Form
  • Motions for new trial.

Victims have the right to:

  • Express opinions regarding the release of the accused pending the disposition of the case
  • Express views concerning the outcome of the case
  • Complete a Victim Impact Statement

Keep Information Current:

  • In order to notify victims of court proceedings, victims must provide the Victim Assistance Program with a current address, telephone number, and email information.  Completing the Notification Request Form and submitting it to the program is the best way to do this.
  • Victims have the option to waive any of the information or notification.
  • Victims can designate a spouse, adult child, parent, sibling or grandparent to act on their behalf if the victim is physically unable to personally assume the rights under the law. 
  • If the victim has been trafficked for labor or sexual servitude (as defined in code section 16-5-46), they have the right to be notified of the availability of compensation through the federal government pursuant to 22 U.S.C. SECTION 7105. See the U.S. Department of State for more information.

National Crime Victims Rights Week

Each April since 1981, National Crime Victims Rights Week has been set aside to recognize the needs and rights of victims and survivors.  For more information, please visit the Office for Victims of Crime.

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