You have the right to remain silent. You have the right to an attorney. You have the right to a speedy trial.
We’re all familiar with the rights afforded to crime suspects. But what about the victims? They get rights, too; they just don’t make for compelling TV.
VICTIMS’ RIGHTS:
Marsy’s Law for Oklahoma
Every day, Oklahomans suffer at the hands of criminals. Then they suffer again – as victims, left alone to navigate a complex judicial system and an unfamiliar court process without the same Constitutional and legal protections that even criminals are afforded.
For Oklahoma, this changed in 2018. Although it took 10 years to be pushed through and placed on a ballot in Oklahoma, 78% of voters said, ‘Yes’ to adding Marsy’s Law to the state’s Constitution.
What is Marsy’s Law?
Marsy’s Law was inspired by Marsalee (Marsy) Nicholas, a University of California Santa Barbara student, who was stalked and killed by her ex-boyfriend in 1983. A week after Marsy was murdered, Marsy’s family walked into a grocery store after visiting her grave and was confronted by her killer. The family was never notified that he had been released on bail…
It proposes a series of protections for victims of crime to ensure they are informed of their rights, notified of proceedings and developments in their case, are heard in court, have input into the process, and are treated with respect and dignity throughout the criminal or delinquency proceeding.
Victims’ rights include an important set of guidelines for helping survivors of crime and domestic violence, be heard and considered, during court proceedings. But, they’re not perfect. And it can be very frustrating if you don’t know what your rights are.
If you or someone you know is a victim of a crime or domestic violence, please share this information or reach out to us here at Haven, we are to help.
I’ve added some links where you can read more about victims’ rights, and Marsy’s Law.
If you are able please call or see the messaging links above:
Haven Office: 918-554-2836
Text Line: 918.533.3070
Crime Victim Advocate: 541.602.0616
Program Website: https://havenprogram.com/
Program Email: havenprogram@estoo.net
Facebook: HAVEN Tribal Program, Twitter: @ProgramHaven, Instagram: HAVENTRIBALProgram.
Our advocates are here to help!
