Victim Impact Statement

A victim impact statement is a written or oral account provided by a crime victim or their representative, detailing the physical, emotional, and financial consequences of the offense on the victim and their loved ones. This statement is typically presented to the court during sentencing proceedings and may influence the judge’s decision regarding the appropriate punishment for the convicted offender. The purpose of a victim impact statement is to give victims a voice in the criminal justice process and to ensure that the court considers the full extent of the harm caused by the crime. The statement may describe the victim’s injuries, medical treatment, psychological trauma, lost wages, and other hardships endured as a result of the offense. It also allows victims to express their feelings and opinions about the crime and the offender, as well as their preferences for sentencing outcomes.