Victim Information
State law guarantees crime victims and witnesses certain notification rights and participation in the criminal justice system. These rights are found in Section 595.209 of Missouri Revised Statutes.
In brief, the victim has the right to:
- Be present at all criminal justice proceedings at which the defendant has such right.
- Information about the crime.
- The filing of charges by the prosecuting attorney’s office.
- Be notified of any hearing dates.
- Confer with the prosecuting attorney.
- Know the case status.
- Victim compensation, if appropriate.
- Know if the defendant escapes and when he/she is captured. Use the MOVANS quick link for further information on automated notification by the Department of Corrections.
- Be notified and attend probation revocation and parole hearings. See MOVANS quick link.
- Defendant’s projected release date and the defendant’s release for any reason. See MOVANS quick link.
- Be informed if the defendant dies.
- Receive protection from the defendant and the defendant’s friends and family.
- Emergency and crisis services.
- Return of property used as evidence.
- Have employers honor a subpoena without use of sick leave or vacation time.
- Temporary creditor intercession by the prosecutor, when appropriate.
- Speedy disposition (resolution) of the case.
- A secure waiting area during court proceedings.
The victim’s rights are considered above the defendant’s rights. There are several state and national organizations available to help crime victims. Many counties in Missouri have crime victim advocates. Please refer to the related link category on the MOVANS website for further information on these services.
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