Community Accountability Programs Information ... - Ministry of Justice

Guidelines for Working with Victimsand OffendersThe victim’s perspectiveRespect for the victim is key to an effective Community AccountabilityProgram. Program volunteers must understand the impact of crime onpeople and must be sensitive to the legitimate concerns of victims.The rights of victimsProvincial and federal legislation, such as the Victims of Crime Act, theYouth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA), and the Criminal Code contain provisionsthat uphold the rights of victims.British Columbia’s Victims of Crime Act recognizes a victim’s right to:• Be treated with courtesy and respect by all justice personnel• Receive information on the justice system, victim services, and relatedlegislation• Receive, on request, certain case-specific information on investigation,prosecution, sentencing, and release• Be given a reasonable opportunity to provide victim impact informationfor presentation to the court before sentencing of the offender• Receive independent legal representation if an application has beenmade for disclosure of his or her personal recordsThe federal Youth Criminal Justice Act also contains several references tothe rights and needs of victims. The Act states that:• Victims should be treated with courtesy, compassion, and respect fortheir dignity and privacy, and should suffer the minimum degree ofinconvenience as a result of their involvement with the youth criminaljustice system.• Victims should be provided with information about the proceedings andgiven an opportunity to participate and be heard.Guidelines for Working with Victims and Offenders 18