Jump to Navigation | Jump to Content
 
  |  Join ABA  |  Media  |  Contact
Advanced Search
Topics A-Z
 

 
Print This  |  E-mail This
ABA Division for Public Education

Criminal Law

Victims' Rights

I want to cooperate in the investigation but am being threatened. Am I protected as a witness?

In a serious or violent crime, victims may be afraid to testify. If the defendant or someone on the defendant's behalf has tried to threaten you into not testifying, tell the police. The law entitles you to police protection, and the police will protect you to the extent they can.

If the court releases the defendant from custody, the law still entitles the victim to protection. The court has the authority to order the defendant to stay away from you and your family if you so request. The police will try to ensure that the defendant obeys this order.

>>What are my rights as a victim?
>>I want to cooperate in the investigation but am being threatened. Am I protected as a witness?
>>Can I get my money back if the criminal is convicted?
>>Do I have a say in the criminal’s punishment?
>>Will I know when the criminal gets out of prison?


Practical Law Home | Criminal Law | Basics of Criminal Law | The Police & Your Rights
Rules on Search and Seizure | Juvenile Criminal Cases | *Victims' Rights*

Back to Top

Copyright American Bar Association. http://www.abanet.org