Victim Rights

Threats

It is a crime for anyone to threaten you or to hurt you because of your testimony.  You have a right to know what to do if you are threatened.
 

Your Role

You have a right to know what you are expected to do as a witness.  We will explain it to you and make sure you understand what that entails.
 

Your Case

You have a right to know what is happening in your case.  We will keep you informed and we will explain each legal step so you will understand what is going on in your case.
 

Safe Place

You have a right to be in a safe place when you are waiting for court.  We will show you where to wait for your turn to testify.
 

Restitution

You have a right to be paid for medical expenses and other losses that result from a violent crime.  We can tell you about the restitution law in Utah and whether you should apply for help from Crime Victims' Reparations.
 

Getting Your Property Back

You have the right to retrieve any of your property that has been taken as evidence when it is no longer needed as evidence.
 

Job Problems

If serving as a witness causes problems with your job, you have a right to ask for assistance from us.  You may ask us to talk to your employer to explain your duty as a witness.  We will try to avoid conflicts with your work but, when we cannot, we will try to make your time in court as short as possible.
 

Speedy End to the Case

You have the right to have your case completed quickly.  We will do what we can to get a speedy disposition of the case.
 

Timely Notice

You have a right to timely notice of all court dates.  If the case is canceled or postponed, we will let you know as soon as possible.
 

Speaking to the Judge

You have the right to be present during all court proceedings - and to speak to the judge in the proceeding.
 

Testimony Requirements

You may not be required to testify at a preliminary hearing.  When possible, we will use written statements in lieu of your live testimony to avoid having you take the stand.
 

ADDITIONAL RIGHTS OF CHILDREN

Interviews

Children have the right to have interviews relating to a criminal prosecution kept to a minimum.
 

Manner of Questioning

Children have the right to be questioned in a manner that is appropriate to the child’s age and understanding and to not to be questioned in a manner that implies they are responsible for the inappropriate behavior of adults.
 

Protection from Abuse

Children have the right to protection from physical and emotional abuse during their involvement with the criminal justice process.
 

Resources

Children have the right to be informed of available community resources and how to gain access to those resources.