Bail, Plea & Sentencing Advocacy for California Crime Victims
Critical stages of a criminal case can directly implicate a victim's rights to safety, notice, consultation, and being heard.
Bail and release
California law recognizes the victim's interest in having victim and family safety considered when bail and release conditions are set. Victims also have rights to be heard, upon request, at proceedings involving post-arrest release decisions.
Plea proceedings
Victims have rights concerning reasonable consultation with the prosecuting agency and, upon request, notice and information before pretrial disposition. They may also have the right to be heard at a proceeding involving a plea.
Sentencing
Victims may have the right to be heard at sentencing and to provide information concerning the impact of the offense and sentencing recommendations through the procedures provided by law.
What private counsel adds
Private counsel can help the victim understand the procedural posture, identify applicable rights, prepare a clear presentation, communicate with the prosecuting agency, and seek enforcement when a protected right is at issue.