This is some advice from Bev. Bev lost her son, Jonathon, to a Drunk Driver. These are some of the things that she found out throughout their court case. Below, you will find some links that may help you with your case. Each case is individual and unique as you are dealing with different Counties, States, Lawyers and Judges. But it never hurts to ask and find out your options. Be on top of EVERYTHING!!!
As we progressed into our court dates, for the man accused of killing our son, we started finding that the more you ask the more you learn. This was a new experience for us and one that I never want to live through again.
We had gotten some information through the system booklets etc. but had not really began to touch the surface of what our rights were. We found that we could meet with the probation officer and that he, indeed, was a man with a heart. We set up our apt with him after finding out purely by accident we could do this. This man was to recommend sentence to the Judge (although it really is up to the judge to decide ) for the man who killed my son. We took in pictures, a scrap book, and many memories. We found that by doing this it put a life and a person along with that case number. By doing this it has changed the way that the Probation Officer looks at his cases now. He told us that no-one had effected him the way we did and thanked me.
We were fortunate to also meet with the Judge in chambers which was a first. Although we were trying to work on a plea bargain, we did get to explain our thoughts our loss and what we felt deep down. His attorney was present also, but none the less we managed to again put a face along with the number.I can only tell you to ASK! ASK! ASK!!!....
sometimes things are not brought up or you are not informed of your rights.
This is why SOARS1 has decided to have a victim area where you can find links and answers to your questions.
We hope this helps you during your court process and also maybe to help others you know.
This is usually a very traumatic time and sometimes you find yourself on the outside looking in. This is why you should be informed of all your rights.
In the future we hope to have examples of impact statements for you and offer help to those who need it.
We hope to have a complete updating of new things as they arrive as well as offering you as members and as our family to be able to share things with others as we all go through this heartbreaking process. Our loved ones are more then a case number!!
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1. Main site for crime victims
2. State by State search 3. Links to many informative sites 4. Impact statements information 5. MADD State Directory. |