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Know Your Rights - Latest Information for Victims and Witnesses

If you’ve been a victim or a witness of crime, your rights are explained in the latest version of the Victims Code of Practice (VCOP). The Code promotes that all victims of crime should be treated in a professional manner, with respect, sensitivity and without discrimination.

View the full Victims Code of Practice (VCOP) here

The code provides victims of crime with 12 key rights:

  • To be able to understand and to be understood

You have the right to understand the information you’re given and to be understood. This includes access to translation or interpretation services if needed.

  • To have the details of the crime recorded without unjustified delay

You have the right to have the crime recorded by the police promptly and may be able to get extra support from a specialist if you need help communicating.

  • To be provided with information when reporting the crime

You have the right to receive written confirmation that the crime has been recorded, get information on the criminal justice process, and be told about support services. Find out more about reporting a crime.

 

  • To be referred to services that support victims and have services and support tailored to your needs

You have the right to be referred to support services or contact them directly. You should also be told about any extra support at court which is available to you. Find out more about what support is available.

  • To be provided with information about compensation

You have the right to be told about compensation that may be available for any loss, damage or injury caused by a crime. Find out more about claiming compensation.

  • To be provided with information about the investigation and prosecution

You have the right to be given updates on your case, be told about important decisions and ask for a review of certain decisions.

 

 

  •  To make a Victim Personal Statement 

You have the right to make a statement telling the court how the crime has affected you, which will be considered when sentencing the offender.

  • To be given information about the trial, trial process and your role as a witness

You have the right to be told the date, location and outcome of any hearing. If you need to give evidence, you can get help before, during and after the trial. Find out more about the court process.

 

  • To be given information about the outcome of the case and any appeals

You have the right to be told the outcome of the case and the sentence. If the offender appeals, you should be told the outcome.

  • To be paid expenses and have property returned

You have the right to claim expenses from giving evidence in court. If property was taken as evidence, you should get it back promptly.

  • To be given information about the offender following a conviction

You have the right to join the Victim Contact Scheme if eligible. The scheme gives you updates on the offender’s sentence, including when they’re being considered for release.

You have the right

  • To make a complaint about your rights not being met

You have the right to complain to the relevant organisation if you’re unhappy with how you’ve been treated. Find out more about how to make a complaint.

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