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VICTIM SERVICES
The Victim Services Unit
of the District Attorney's Office provides
victims with support before, during, and after their cases are being
processed through the judicial system. The unit provides information,
forms, and affidavits that make it possible for victims to seek
restitution. This unit is the voice for victims in the judicial system.
CRIME VICTIM'S RIGHTS
A priority of this unit
is to provide personal assistance to
individuals who are victims of crime. If you are a victim of a crime,
you can begin the healing process by contacting the Victim Services
Unit. Office hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Monday
through Friday. For additional information call (334) 774-9500.
In January 1996, the State of Alabama enacted the Crime Victims' Bill
of Rights. These rights, found in Article 3, Sections 15-23-60 through
15-23-84 of the Code of Alabama, 1975, define certain rights granted to
victims of crime.
Within 72 hours after a
victim files a crime report, the assisting
local law enforcement officer shall provide the victim with the
following:
- list of local emergency and crisis services
- name and phone number of the officer and the agency handling your
report
- name and phone number of the prosecuting attorney
- procedure for a criminal prosecution information about victim's
compensation benefits
- information about restitution and compensation
- procedure for safety if you are subject to threats or intimidation as
a victim
A CRIME VICTIM ALSO HAS A RIGHT TO:
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notification of all criminal
proceedings and charges filed against the defendant, with the exception
of initial appearance, and the right to be present at all proceedings
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necessary information regarding the
appropriate agencies from which you may request information |
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explanation of the pre-sentence
report and the right to make a written or oral statement to the
probation officer, and aright to review the pre-sentence report |
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notification of the time and place of
any sentencing hearing and to make a written or oral statement, or
present any information at a sentencing proceeding or any other
proceeding as authorized by law |
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information regarding the return of
any property taken |
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notification of the date of
conviction, acquittal or dismissal of charges against the defendant and
the sentence imposed |
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refusal of an interview or other
communication with the defendant, his attorney or anyone acting on his
behalf |
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status and results of any post
conviction appeal |
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provision of a waiting area separate
from the defendant, his relatives and defense witnesses if available an
practical |
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submission of a statement to be
entered into the inmate's records and to be notified of release, bond,
prison, escape, re-arrest, or death of prisoner |
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information regarding collection of
restitution |
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release of opinion by the Alabama
Department of Mental Health |
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notification of any Pardon an Parole
Board hearings and the right to be present and heard at such hearings |
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