The Monroe County Victim / Witness Assistance Program has been established in the Office of the District Attorney to provide information, assistance, and advocacy to all victims, witnesses and significant others. Our mission is to ensure that all victims and witnesses are treated with dignity, compassion and respect throughout the Criminal / Juvenile Justice System.

As a victim, you can expect that the advocate assigned to your case will treat you with dignity and respect. Your advocate will assist you in understanding the Criminal / Juvenile Justice System as well as inform you of developments in your case as they occur.

The information on this website is to help you to understand your rights and responsibilities as a crime victim, as well as other information you may find helpful.

After reviewing the information provided here, if you have additional questions regarding this office or the services we provide, please fell free to contact one of the advocates listed on our Victim / Witness Advocates page. We welcome your questions as well as any suggestions you may have to assist us to help you in the best way possible.

 

Victim Impact Statements


Victims of crime have the right to participate and to be heard in the criminal justice system through the use of Victim Impact Statements. A Victim Impact Statement provides the victim with an opportunity to address the court prior to sentencing.

This opportunity also allows victims to personalize the crime and express the impact it has had on them and their families. This process may also aid victims in their emotional recovery.

You are under no obligation to submit a Victim Impact Statement – it is your choice. It can be either a written or oral statement given to the Judge at the time of sentencing.

Typically, a Victim Impact Statement will contain the following:

  • The physical, financial, psychological or emotional impact of the crime, such as:
    • Medical treatment, ongoing medical problems as the result of the crime.
    • Financial burden of medical treatment, counseling, loss of work, replacing damaged or stolen items.
    • Emotional struggles due to fears, loss of a loved one, relocation, ability to related to others, changes in relationships, trust, etc.
  • The harm done to the family, such as:
    • Changes in family relationships or roles
    • Financial struggles
    • The need for restitution
    • The Victim’s opinion of an appropriate sentence for the offender.

    If you need further assistance in preparing a Victim Impact Statement, please contact our agency.