960.0021 Legislative intent; advisement to victims. - Florida Statutes

960.0021 Legislative intent; advisement to victims.

   (1) The Legislature finds that in order to ensure that crime victims can effectively understand and exercise their rights under s. 16, Art. I of the State Constitution, and to promote law enforcement that considers the interests of crime victims, victims must be properly advised in the courts of this state.

   (2) The courts may fulfill their obligation to advise crime victims by:

   (a) Making the following announcement at any arraignment, sentencing, or case-management proceeding:

“If you are the victim of a crime with a case pending before this court, you are advised that you have the right:

1. To be informed.

2. To be present.

3. To be heard, when relevant, at all crucial stages of criminal proceedings to the extent that these rights do not interfere with the constitutional rights of the accused.

4. To receive advance notification, when possible, of judicial proceedings and notification of scheduling changes, pursuant to section 960.001, Florida Statutes.

5. To seek crimes compensation and restitution.

6. To consult with the state attorney’s office in certain felony cases regarding the disposition of the case.

7. To make an oral or written victim impact statement at the time of sentencing of a defendant.

For further information regarding additional rights afforded to victims of crime, you may contact the state attorney’s office or obtain a listing of your rights from the Clerk of Court.”

; or

   (b) Displaying prominently on the courtroom doors posters giving notification of the existence and general provisions of this chapter. The Department of Legal Affairs shall provide the courts with the posters specified by this paragraph.

   (3) The circuit court administrator shall coordinate efforts to ensure that victim rights information, as established in s. 960.001(1)(o), is provided to the clerk of the court.

   (4) This section is only for the benefit of crime victims. Accordingly, a failure to comply with this section shall not affect the validity of any hearing, conviction, or sentence.

History. s. 1, ch. 2002-56.