Victims' Rights

Crime Victims Rights in Texas
Victims of crime have the right to:
  • Receive adequate protection from harm and threats of harm arising from cooperation with prosecution efforts.
  • Have their safety considered by the magistrate when setting bail.
  • Advance notification, on request, of relevant court proceedings, including cancellations and rescheduling.
  • Request information from a peace officer about a defendant's general right to bail and criminal investigation procedures, and from the prosecutor's office about general procedures in the criminal justice system, including plea agreements, restitution, appeals and parole.
  • Information about the Texas Crime Victims' Compensation Fund and, on request, referral to social service agencies that provide other types of assistance.
  • Provide pertinent information concerning the impact of the crime to the probation department conducting the pre-sentencing investigation.
  • Payment for medical examination for victims of sexual assault by the law enforcement agency requesting the exam and, on request, the right to counseling regarding AIDS and HIV infection and testing for sexual assault victims.
  • Information, on request, about parole procedures, notification of parole proceedings and of the inmate's release, and the right to participate in the parole process by submitting written information to the Board of Pardons and Paroles for inclusion in the defendant's file for consideration by the Board prior to parole.
  • Be present at all public court proceedings, with the presiding judge's consent.
  • A safe waiting area at all public court proceedings.
  • Prompt return of any property that is no longer needed as evidence.
  • Have the prosecutor notify, on request, an employer that the need for the victim's testimony may involve the victim's absence from work.
  • Complete a Victim Impact Statement, detailing the emotional, physical and financial impact of the crime on the victim and to have the statement considered by a judge at sentencing and by officials prior to the release of the offender(s)