(1) The Legislature finds that in order to ensure that crime victims can effectively understand and exercise their rights under Fla. Const. Art. I, § 16, 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 doing one of the following:

(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, upon request:

1. To be informed.

2. To be present.

3. To be heard at all stages of criminal proceedings.

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.”

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Terms Used In Florida Statutes 960.0021

  • Arraignment: A proceeding in which an individual who is accused of committing a crime is brought into court, told of the charges, and asked to plead guilty or not guilty.
  • Conviction: A judgement of guilt against a criminal defendant.
  • Defendant: In a civil suit, the person complained against; in a criminal case, the person accused of the crime.
  • Obligation: An order placed, contract awarded, service received, or similar transaction during a given period that will require payments during the same or a future period.
  • Restitution: The court-ordered payment of money by the defendant to the victim for damages caused by the criminal action.
  • Victim Impact Statement: A written or spoken statement by the victim or his or her representative about the physical, emotional, and financial impact of a crime on the victim. The statement is given to the court before sentencing.
(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.
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