Guidelines for the Treatment of
Crime Victims and Witnesses
(Criminal Procedure, Article 11-1002
Annotated Code of Maryland)

The following is a summary of the guidelines which prescribe the ways in which victims and witnesses of crime will be treated and helped. These guidelines are now part of Maryland's Criminal Code and became effective July 1, 1986.

In accordance with these guidelines, every crime victim or witness should:

• Be treated with dignity, respect, courtesy, and sensitivity
• Receive emergency help as needed
• Receive notification of trial dates or cancellation of those dates
• Be advised of law enforcement protection available from harm arising out of prosecution and law enforcement efforts
• Be provided a waiting area apart from the accused
• Be informed of any available financial assistance or social service
• Be advised of and provided with employer intercession services, when appropriate
• Be assisted with prompt property return
• Be informed of restitution procedures and information
• Receive speedy handling of the case in which you are involved

In addition, the following is available to you, when requested in writing:

• The progress of your case from the police and the State's Attorney
• The prompt return of property by law enforcement agencies
• The reading of victim impact statements at any hearing that considers a release
• To know when the convicted offender is scheduled to be released from prison or jail
• To know when the offender escapes or receives a Mandatory Release from prison
• To receive notice of other hearings, to include bail hearing, dismissal, nolle prosequi, stetting of charges, disposition

This legislation does not create a cause of action against any individual or a governmental agency.

Revised June 15, 2004