NCJ Number
239442
Journal
Victims and Offenders Volume: 7 Issue: 2 Dated: April - June 2012 Pages: 161-184
Date Published
April 2012
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This study examined the rules that regulate victim participation in the criminal justice process.
Abstract
The victims' rights movement has helped promote opportunities for victim participation within the criminal justice system. One such opportunity, the creation and delivery of a victim impact statement, has generated significant empirical attention. Most of this research explores the effects of participation on specific outcomes (e.g., sentencing, victim satisfaction). Yet relatively little is known about the implementation of victim participation in the courtroom by criminal justice workers. Using trial transcripts, courtroom observations, and interviews with criminal justice officials and victims, the current study examines the rules that regulate victim participation, revealing how victims are incorporated into the justice process. Published by arrangement with Taylor and Francis.