Victims' Bill of Rights
The Victims’ Bill of Rights was signed into law on July 23, 1992, by then Governor Michael N. Castle, signed the Victims Bill of Rights into law. This law mandates that victims are informed about the criminal process and extends notification and participation rights to them. The statute was later amended in 1993, by then Governor Thomas R. Carper.
The underlying premise of the legislation is that victims should have the right to be treated with respect and compassion; to be informed about and involved in the criminal justice process, to be protected from harm and intimidation, and to be provided fair information and notice concerning the criminal justice process.
All agencies given duties under the Victims’ Bill of Rights are required to submit an annual report with related statistics outlining compliance with the Bill. Annual reports are to be submitted to the Governor and the Criminal Justice Council at the end of each calendar year.
Fifty (50) agencies are required to submit this report including:
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the Board of Pardons
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the Courts
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State and local police agencies
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the Division of Fish & Wildlife
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the Division of Parks & Recreation
