12/30/2023 0 Comments Witness statement example letter![]() ![]() When the judge orders the defendant to pay the victim it is called "restitution." If the judge orders the defendant to pay you restitution, there is no guarantee that the defendant will be able to pay you the entire amount ordered. This information is used by the Judge to determine any money the defendant may have to pay you for expenses you have paid or money you owe because of the crime. Although the judge will decide the defendant’s sentence based primarily on the pre-sentence report and certain sentencing guidelines, the judge should consider your opinion before making a decision.įinally, it includes a financial loss statement which is used to verify and assess the financial impact of the crime upon you. The victim impact statement assists the judge when he or she decides what sentence the defendant should receive. Many victims also find it helps provide some measure of closure to the ordeal the crime has caused. It provides an opportunity to express in your own words what you, your family, and others close to you have experienced as a result of the crime. What is the purpose of a Victim Impact Statement? Combining a written statement with an oral statement during the sentence hearing can be especially impactful and helpful to the court. Your oral statement can be new or you can read the written statement you previously provided. You also have the option to submit a written statement AND give an oral statement at sentencing. The Victim Witness Coordinator will help you prepare to provide an oral statement. Attorney’s Office Victim Witness Coordinator as soon as possible. If you would like to speak at the sentencing, it is important to contact the U.S. However, any personal identifying information such as the victim’s name is redacted.Īn oral statement at the sentencing allows the judge to hear your voice and its inflections and to put a face to the crime committed. It is important to know that written victim impact statements are usually seen by the defendant and the defense attorney. A standard form to fill out might also be available if that is the victim’s preference. Common formats used by victims include, but are not limited to: formal statements, personal narratives, or written letter to the judge. Written victim impact statements can be in a variety of different formats, depending on what feels most comfortable for the victim. Your written statement allows the judge time to re-read and ruminate on your words prior to making a sentencing decision. This report is then submitted to the judge prior to sentencing. Probation Office to be included as part of the Presentence Investigation Report. ![]() Written impact statements are submitted to the United States Attorney’s Office and then forwarded to the U.S. Victim impact statements can be either written or oral statements. Victim impact statements describe the emotional, physical, and financial impact you and others have suffered as a direct result of the crime. It is important for the Court to know the impact this crime has had on its victims. ![]()
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