Friday, April 23, 2004
The proposed victims' rights legislation passed by the Senate would establish the legal rights:
To be "reasonably protected" from the accused offender.To be notified of any public proceeding involving the crime.Not to be excluded from any such public proceeding.To be notified of any release or escape of the accused.To be heard at any public proceeding involving release, plea, sentencing, reprieve or pardon.To confer with the government attorney in the case.To full and timely restitution from the convicted offender.
Rights of the accused included in the Constitution:
Counsel.Due process.Speedy trial.Warrants issued only upon probable cause.A jury of peers.To be informed of accusations.To confront witnesses.To subpoena witnesses.Grand jury indictment.Protection against double jeopardy.Protection against self-incrimination.Protection against excessive bail.Protection against unreasonable search and seizure.Protection against excessive fines.Protection against cruel and unusual punishment.
Source: Associated Press
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