What is the Victims of Crime Protocol?

 

This booklet is meant to be a useful reference for people who are victims of crime. It outlines what you can expect from the criminal justice process, from the time you report a crime through the police investigation, court proceedings and, if the accused is found guilty, provincial and federal corrections and the Parole Board of Canada. The protocol also tells what is expected from you and what else you can do when you are in contact with the criminal justice system. The Victims of Crime Protocol is a coiled 88 page handbook that is  provided to you free of charge with plenty of useful information divided in sections that takes you through the criminal justice process. Call 403-885-3355 to receive your copy.

 

 

What can I expect during a police investigation?

 

You will get information about victim services

• You will get information about the investigation process

• If you ask, the police will let you know: 

  • How the investigation turned out and if charges were laid;

  • What the charges are; and

  • The name of the accused (the person charged with the crime)

• If you ask, police or Victim & Witness Support can explain what happens next in the criminal justice process.

 

What if I am worried about my safety?

 

You might be worried about your safety. Maybe you think the person who committed the crime will come back to hurt you. If you think this could happen, be sure to tell the investigating officer or Victim & Witness Support. They may be able to help you find a shelter or a safe place. They can also make sure you know what other choices are available for helping you stay safe, including;

• Getting an emergency protection order;

• Getting a Queen’s Bench protection order

• Getting a peace bond

• Getting a restraining order

• Getting a firearm prohibition order;

• Finding out the release conditions of the offender; and

• Developing a safety plan.

 

What can I expect during court proceedings?

 

The Victim and Witness Support unit can help you find out when and where hearings and trials will take place. You can ask them for information about what to expect during the court process. Someone from Victim and Witness Support will provide you with court preparation and court accompaniment and support. If you are a witness and you have special needs, you can ask for help to make it easier for you to give evidence to the court. Every reasonable effort will be made to protect  your safety and security in the court house.

 

What can I expect at the time of verdict and sentencing?

 

At the time of verdict and sentencing, if you ask, Victim & Witness Support will see that you are told the outcome of the trail and, if the accused is found guilty, when sentencing will happen. If you submitted a victim impact statement, the judge will consider it as part of the sentencing procedure. You have the right to ask to read your victim impact statement aloud in court. If you have concerns about your safety, you can talk to police, Victim & Witness Support, Crown prosecutor or Correctional Services, to ask for help to arrange for your safety.

 

What help is available to victims of crime in Alberta?

 

Nearly all RCMP detachments and municipal police services have a Victim Services Unit. The units help victims of crime during their involvement with the criminal justice system. The unit can give victims support, information, and referrals. The unit will also explain the Financial Benefits Program, the Requesting Restitution Program, and the Victim Impact Statement Program.  To contact the Central Alberta Victim and Witness Support Society, call 403-885-3355.