How do prosecutors help victims?

Prosecutors should advocate for the rights of victims to have their views heard by judges on bail decisions, continuances, plea bargains, dismissals, sentencing, and restitution.

Do prosecutors represent victims?

Victims of crime do not need to have their own lawyer for court as they are witnesses for the prosecution. The prosecution represents the community.

What is the role of prosecutor during trials?

Prosecutors shall perform an active role in criminal proceedings, including institution of prosecution and, where authorized by law or consistent with local practice, in the investigation of crime, supervision over the legality of these investigations, supervision of the execution of court decisions and the exercise of …

What a victim should expect in court?

As the victim you will be the prosecution’s main witness. You will be subpoenaed (a legal written notice sent to you) if the police want you to be a witness. If you need to pay travel costs to attend court you should contact the police to tell them you need money for travel costs.

How does victimization affect each role in a prosecution?

Victim testimony often is the most important element of a successful prosecution. Moreover, a victim’s cooperation in an investigation and prosecution often results in a prosecutor’s exercise of discretion in favor of criminal prosecution. This participation is therefore both critical and desirable.

Is the prosecutor the victim’s lawyer or the police officer?

Although a prosecutor regularly deals with police officers, witnesses, and victims, the prosecutor’s primary obligation is not to serve the interests of these parties—however sympathetic he may be to the suffering of a victim, the prosecutor is not the victim’s lawyer.

What is the duty of the prosecutor to seek justice?

The duty of the prosecutor is to seek justice, not merely to convict. Therefore if at any time the prosecution believes the defendant is not guilty of the crime, he or she should not proceed with prosecution in the case.

Who is the victim in a criminal case?

A victim is defined as a person who has suffered physical or emotional harm, property damage, or economic loss as a result of a crime. Historically, in the effective administration of the criminal justice system, the role of the victim in criminal prosecutions has been critical.