Giving more victims a voice in court to explain how crime has affected them.
Victims of stalking are among those who could get the right to explain to courts how they have personally suffered as a result of crime.
A new consultation asks if victims of all serious crimes – including human trafficking, domestic abuse and religiously aggravated offences – should be able to detail in court how they have been impacted physically, emotionally and financially by the crime.
At present, victims of violent crimes and people affected by a murder have the option of making a written victim statement about the impact a crime has had upon them to be considered by sheriffs and judges as part of the sentencing process.
Now views are being sought on widening the use of these statements.
New ways to use technology to lessen the burden on victims when making a statement are also up for consideration, which is part of broader work backed by £18 million of funding to improve support, advice and information for victims and their families.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “The long-term fall in crime over the last decade means fewer people fall prey to criminals in Scotland, but any experience of a serious crime can be traumatic and the fallout can affect many parts of a victim’s life.
“Victim statements are a way of giving people the option of having their voice heard in court to tell their side of the story – how they and their loved ones have been impacted by the crime. For maximum effectiveness the system must keep pace with technology and changes to the criminal law and we are committed to ensuring the voices of victims are represented as we continue developing victim support.”
Widening the Scope of Victim Statements consultation is open for responses until 24 November 2019.
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