Crime Victim Bill of Rights

RCW 7.69.030

1. With respect to victims of violent or sex crimes, to receive either directly or through the child’s parent or guardian, if appropriate, at the time of reporting the crime to law enforcement officials, a written statement of the rights of child victims. The written statement shall include the name, address, and telephone number of a county or local crime victim/witness program, if such a crime victim/witness program exists in the county.

2. To be informed of the final outcome of the case.

3. To be informed of changes in court dates for which you have been subpoenaed.

4. To receive protection from harm and threats of harm arising from your cooperation with law enforcement and prosecution.

5. To receive witness fees to which you are entitled.

6. To have, whenever practical, a secure waiting area during court proceedings.

7. To have any stolen or other personal property used as evidence returned as soon as possible after completion of the case.

8. To have someone intervene with your employer, if necessary, when you are required to be in court.

9. To have access to immediate medical assistance without necessary delay. With regard to victims of domestic violence, sex assault or stalking (or their family members), to be allowed reasonable leave from employment to take care of legal issues, receive medical treatment or obtain other necessary services.

10. With respect to victims of violent and sex crimes, to have a crime victim advocate from a crime victim/witness program present at any prosecutorial or defense interviews with the victim. This subsection applies if practical and if the presence of the crime victim advocate does not cause any unnecessary delay in the investigation or prosecution of the case. The role of the crime victim advocate is to provide emotional support to the crime victim.

11. To be present in court during trial if you are a victim or survivor of a victim after your testimony has been given and no further testimony is required.

12. To be informed of the date, time and location of the trial and, if requested, of the sentencing hearing in felony cases if you are the victim or survivor of the victim.

13. To present a statement in person or in writing at the sentencing hearing in felony cases if you are the victim or a survivor of the victim.

14. To submit a victim impact statement to the court.

15. To have restitution ordered by the court, unless the court finds this inappropriate, in felony cases if you are the victim or survivor of a victim.

16. To present a statement in person, via audio or videotape, in writing, or by representation at any hearing conducted regarding an application for pardon or commutation of sentence.

Photo by Paul Sableman, Courtesy of Creative Commons