Victim Resources
California Crime Victim Rights at Sentencing
Sentencing can be a critical opportunity for a victim to be heard.
Updated September 23, 2026
Reviewed for publication by Mark A. Amador | Former California prosecutor | Partner, Wingert Grebing Brubaker & Walshok LLP
Being heard
Marsy's Law includes, upon request, the right to be heard at sentencing and other specified proceedings.
Impact
Victims can organize information about the physical, emotional, financial, family, work, and safety consequences of the offense.
Restitution
Economic-loss documentation may also be important to restitution proceedings.
Legal reference: California Constitution article I, section 28; California DOJ victim-rights materials. Parole-specific pages also rely on current CDCR victim-services guidance. This page is general information, not legal advice.
General information only. Rights, procedures, deadlines, and available remedies can depend on the facts and the stage of the case.