NCJ Number
211301
Date Published
2005
Length
67 pages
Annotation
This booklet presents information for victims of crime in Australia.
Abstract
Victims of crime play an important role in the criminal justice system and, as such, have been afforded certain rights and services designed to assist victims in their recovery. This booklet conveys the legal rights of crime victims in Australia and lists resources and services designed to assist crime victims. The 14 principles governing the criminal justice system treatment of victims are presented before the booklet turns to a discussion of the impact of crime on victims. The possible physical, emotional, and psychological impacts of crime and ways of coping are discussed, with a focus on particular circumstances such as child victims and victims of workplace crime. Advice for dealing with the media is offered and a step-by-step description of the legal process, from the reporting of a crime to the appeals process, is detailed, including information about the juvenile justice system. Resources for victim assistance are described, including assistance for witnesses and court companions, and the various types of victim compensation are discussed. Victim support services are identified and contact information is provided. Finally, information is presented on how to file complaints. Glossary