Victim Assistance Program - Crime Victim Rights

Revised Code

Ohio Law also gives you specific statutory rights before, during, and after the trial. Your statutory rights under the Ohio Revised Code include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The right to receive information about your rights as a crime victim and local services.
• The right to appoint a representative.
• The right to receive current information about the criminal investigation.
• The right to be notified when the offender is arrested or released from jail.
• The right to reasonable return of property.
• The right to information from, and meaningful discussions with, the prosecutor.
• The right to be free from intimidation.
• The right to notification of substantial delay.
• The right to meaningful participation during the trial.
• The right to make a statement at the sentencing about the impact of the crime.
• The right to participate in criminal proceedings without jeopardizing employment status.
• The right to receive notice if the violent offender escapes custody before trial or sentencing.
• The right to receive information after sentencing.
• The right to information and input about the defendant’s incarceration and parole status.

Ohio Constitutional Amendment

As a victim of crime in Ohio, you have certain constitutional rights that are found in Article 1, Section 10 (Adopted November 8, 1994) of the Constitution of Ohio:

"Victims of criminal offenses should be accorded fairness, dignity, and respect in the criminal justice process, and, as the General Assembly shall define and provide by law, shall be accorded rights to reasonable and appropriate notice, information, access and protection and to a meaningful role in the criminal justice process. This section does not confer upon any person a right to appeal or modify any decision in a criminal proceeding, does not abridge any other right guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States or this constitution, and does not create any cause of action for compensation or damages against the state, any political subdivision of the state, any officer, employee, or agent of the state or any political subdivision, or any officer of the court."