NCJ Number
82238
Editor(s)
G Nicholson
Date Published
1981
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This handbook provides California's crime victims and witnesses with information about their roles in the administration of justice and advice on their rights and the services available to them at the State and local program levels.
Abstract
It introduces the recently established victim/witness programs that provide various kinds of direct services and assistance to crime victims and witnesses, which in California consists of a statewide network of over two dozen crisis centers and shelters. The role of law enforcement and the prosecutor following a crime incident report are explained, as are the procedures for return of property and the types of criminal offenses and the types of courts. Suggestions for witnesses making court appearances include being truthful, attentive, answering the questions asked, and dressing neatly. Victims and witnesses are told that if a defendant is found guilty, the county probation department may request information to be used in their report to the sentencing judge. Victim compensation programs are explained in terms of eligibility, amounts, and application procedures. Restitution, victims' rights litigation, and crime prevention measures are also addressed. An illustrated criminal justice calendar is provided along with a glossary of legal terms. Also listed are members of the Citizens' Advisory Commission on Victims of Crime, the Judicial Advisory Commission on Victims of Crime, and the Artists' Advisory Commission on Victims of Crime.