Infographic: What are my rights

Text version of "What are my rights" infographic

If you have been the victim of a crime, YOU HAVE RIGHTS!

How to ask about your rights throughout the criminal justice system

The Canadian Victims Bill of Rights provides:

• Right to information
• Right to protection
• Right to participation
• Right to seek restitution

If someone denies you those rights, you can file a complaint.

Reporting – What to ask the investigating officer

• Are there services and support available to me?
• What will happen next (information about the investigation process)?
• How will you keep me updated on the progress of the investigation?
• What can be done to ensure my safety (no-contact order, peace bond)?
• Am I eligible for victim compensation and how can I apply?
• How can I get in touch with Crown Counsel and when should I do so?

Charges and arrest – What to ask Crown Counsel

• Can you keep me informed about the charges, bail conditions, and any changes, such as a plea deal, dropped charge, or stayed or dismissed case?
• How can I request restitution?
• If the authorities release the person who harmed me, how can I be protected?
• If the authorities release the person who harmed me, will you inform me beforehand and how can I share my concerns about bail conditions?
• When is the next court date and what will happen at that stage?
• Are there Restorative Justice opportunities and what are they?

Court Process – What to ask Crown Counsel

• Can you keep me updated on the case, court dates and proceedings, the Crown prosecutor’s decisions, and what evidence will be presented?
• Can you put measures in place to help me testify in court and ensure my safety?
• How do I request a publication ban to protect my identity or how can I remove a publication ban order?
• How do I make a request for restitution and collect it?

Verdict and Sentencing – What to ask Crown Counsel

• Can you keep me informed about the verdict (guilty or not guilty), the sentencing and any conditions imposed?
• What additional protection orders like house arrest or a peace bond are available?
• When and how should I submit my victim impact statement, what can I include in it, and can I read it in court or have someone else read it for me?
• How do I register to receive information while the person who harmed me is incarcerated?
• If the accused is found not criminally responsible: how do I register and attend review board hearings?

In case of appeal:

• Can you keep me informed about the status and final decision?
• What safety measures are available if the authorities release the offender during the appeal?

After sentencing

You can register with Correctional Service of Canada or the Parole Board of Canada to get information on:

• The administration of the offender’s sentence (location, eligibility dates for parole or release)
• How to submit a victim statement before hearings
• Parole hearing dates, decisions, and offender transfers between institutions
• The offender’s release date, parole conditions, and any supervision terms
• How to share your safety concerns
• Information about restorative justice or mediation