Victim’s Bill Of Rights

VICTIMS’ BILL OF RIGHTS

In Pennsylvania, both the defendants and the victims have rights. Crime victim rights are established under a state law known as the Crime Victims Act.

You have the right to:

  • Information on services available to crime victims
  • Notification of important developments in your case
  • Have someone go with you to hearings about your case
  • Give a statement on the impact the crime had on you and your family
  • Help in filing for victim compensation benefits
  • Have any property taken returned to you

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Notice of Rights:

If you are the victim of domestic violence, you have the right to go to court and file for a petition requesting an order of protection from abuse pursuant to the act of October 7,1976 (PL 1090, No. 218). Known as the Protection from Abuse Act which could include the following:

  • An order restraining the abuser from further acts of abuse
  • An order directing the abuser to leave your household
  • An order preventing the abuser from entering your residence, school, business or place of employment
  • An order awarding the parent temporary custody or temporary visitation with her/his children