A ‘victim’ is defined under the California Constitution as, “a person who suffers direct or threatened physical, psychological, or financial harm as a result of the commission or attempted commission of a crime or delinquent act. The term ‘victim’ also includes the person’s spouse, parents, children, siblings, or guardian, and includes a lawful representative of a crime victim who is deceased, a minor, or physically or psychologically incapacitated."

As a California crime victim, you have a right to:

• Be informed about the criminal justice process;
• Be notified and informed of pending felony pretrial/trial dispositions;
• Be heard by the court* at sentencing/disposition/parole eligibility hearings;
• The return of property when it is no longer needed as evidence;
• Be notified if your presence in court is not needed;
• Be informed about available civil remedies, financial assistance, and social services;
• Be compensated for your loss whenever possible;
• Be provided with a secure waiting area during court proceedings; and
• Have inconveniences associated with participation in the criminal justice process minimized.

  Adapted from the Crime Victim’s Bill of Rights

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Marsy's Rights 

Marsy's Law text adopted on November 5, 2008