New York County District Attorney's Office

New York County District Attorney's Office

Robert M. Morgenthau, District Attorney

Crime Victims' Rights

Victims have certain rights in the criminal justice system. Depending upon the type and disposition of the case, a victim may be entitled to:

Protection from threats, physical injury, or other types of intimidation. Obtain an order of protection form from the court.
Protection from employer dismissal or penalties for attendance at a criminal action as long as the employer is notified at least one day in advance. Wages, however, may be withheld for time spent attending the criminal action.
Financial compensation from the New York State Crime Victims Board.
Retrieve their stolen property held as evidence unless there is a compelling reason for retaining it.
Make a statement to the Department of Probation for consideration by the judge when determining the defendant's sentence.
Request restitution as part of a defendant's sentence.
Make an oral statement to the court at the defendant's sentencing.
Notification of the final disposition of the case.
Make a written or oral statement to the New York Division of Parole for consideration when determining whether to parole an inmate from a state correctional facility.
Receive an automated and/or written notification of the release of an inmate from a city or state correctional facility.

To learn more about these rights, speak to any member of the Witness Aid Services Unit staff.