Information for Victims of Crime
Introduction
As the victim of a crime committed by a youth, you are likely to have questions about the services available to you from the Juvenile Court. The Rights of Crime Victims Act, passed by the Utah Legislature in 1994, gives a crime victim certain rights. These include the right to be treated with courtesy and respect, the right to a speedy disposition of your case, and the right to restitution for loss. The following information explains these rights and some of the court processes.
If the police report on your case names you as a victim and the youth offender is caught, you will receive a letter from the victim advocate or juvenile probation officer assigned to the case. This is the person you should contact with questions about the course of the case, and about your rights and role in the court process. The advocate's or probation officer's phone number is listed on the letter so you will know where to call.
Restitution (the amount to be repaid)
A letter will be sent to you that asks you to document your financial loss. It is important to complete the form as quickly and accurately as possible. If exact costs are not available then estimates may be provided.
Whenever possible, the youth will be required to pay you restitution for your loss. The youth may be placed on a court work crew to earn the money to repay you. Unless they they were ordered, or they agreed to pay you directly, a check will be sent to you from the court as the youth either pays into or earns money towards their court account.
The court makes every effort to assist the youth in making restitution payments. When a referred youth does not comply or cannot be found, the juvenile court will continue to make efforts to recover your restitution. However, obtaining all of your money in a timely manner may be difficult. It is important to tell the court if you move, so that you can continue to recieve payments.
Victim Impact Statements
You will receive a form which, if you choose to complete, asks you to share with the court and the referred youth the impact the crime has had on you and your family. The information received from victims often impacts the court's decisions.
Notice About Testimony and Hearings
If your testimony is needed in a case, the prosecutor will keep you informed as to when you will need to appear. The prosecutor's office will try to assist you in working with your employer to allow time off to testify as a victim or witness.
If you wish to be notified about court hearings you may indicate you would like to be notified on the paperwork that was sent to you, contact the worker listed on the victim information paperwork directly, or reach out to the Juvenile Court Victim Coordinators & Victim Liaisons in your area.
Please be aware that most hearings for referred youth are closed to the public, but as a victim you should be allowed to attend most hearings such as the arraignment, trial, and disposition. Contact the court worker or prosecuting attorney if you wish to attend.
Safe Waiting Area
The court will make every effort to provide a separate waiting area for you to wait for court. If you plan to attend a court hearing notify the court worker involved, especially if you have concerns for your safety.
If You Are Threatened
It is a crime for anyone to threaten or hurt you if you are a victim or witness testifying. The prosecuting attorney's office can tell you more about the witness tampering law. Be sure to tell the court worker and prosecuting attorney involved if you receive any threats. Call your police department and file a complaint against the person making threats.
Return of Property
After your property is no longer needed for evidence it can be returned to you. You should contact the police agency who has the property or your Juvenile Court contact person can help you exercise your right to get it back.