NCJ Number
116951
Date Published
1988
Length
76 pages
Annotation
This report examines research into victims and the criminal justice system and describes initiatives in victims' programs and services, with a focus on South Australia.
Abstract
Victim-oriented research is reviewed, including studies dealing with the impact of the offense, fear of crime, the role and status of the victim within the criminal justice system, and the need for better consultation. The issue of victim-related reform is canvassed, and the need for more research, particularly on the victims' perspectives, is noted. An historical analysis is presented that suggests that while, in previous centuries, victims may have had a greater opportunity to play a role in the prosecution, they rarely seized this opportunity. It is suggested that the current interest in victims' rights should be seen as a need to create a more just, responsible, and responsive criminal justice system rather than a wish to return to some former 'golden age.' Results of recent victimization surveys in Australia provide information on the incidence and nature of offenses, victim characteristics, and the needs of victims. Australian and British research documents the physical, mental, and financial impact of crime on victims. Victim-oriented policies in Australia are reviewed, including restitution and compensation schemes, special facilities and provisions for sexual assault victims, adopting of a charter of victims' rights, and sentencing reforms. Finally, a 2-year study to assess the types of assistance, information, and involvement needed by South Australian victims is described. Supplemental information is appended. 6 tables and 71 references.