Crime victims have the right to submit what are known as victim impact statements, and the State's Attorney's Office strongly encourages victims to exercise this important right.

What is a victim impact statement?

In an impact statement, a victim provides an explanation of how the crime affected you, your family, or even your community. Statements should include:

• A "brief" summary of the harm or trauma suffered by the victim or family as a result of the crime.
• A summary of the economic loss or damage suffered by the victim as a result of the crime. Include requests for restitution for out-of-pocket expenses.
• A concise statement of what outcome the victim would like and the reasons to support this opinion, including support for or opposition to treatment or community service programs.
• Highlights about the victim, past accomplishments, hopes for the future, and what the crime has done to change these activities.
• The overall effect the crime has had on the victim and family.

CLICK HERE FOR A SAMPLE STATEMENT

Why is a victim impact statement so important?

After a defendant pleads guilty or is found guilty of a crime, a Judge sentences the defendant. The Judge responsible for sentencing the defendant reads and considers victim impact statements before setting the sentence.

What else should I know about victim impact statements?

A victim impact statement submitted to the Court becomes part of the criminal case file. As a result, everyone involved in the case will receive a copy, including the Judge prosecutor, defendant, defense lawyer, and probation officer.

Is a victim required to submit a victim impact statement?

No. There is no obligation to compose and submit a victim impact statement.

Where are victim impact statements to be sent?

Victim impact statements can be submitted in one of three ways: through this Web site, by mail, or by fax.

Compose and submit Victim Impact Statements online

To submit by mail, send to:

Clarence Mitchell Courthouse
100 N.Calvert Street
Room 410
Baltimore, MD 21202

To submit by fax, send to:
410-637-3172

Still have questions?
If you have any questions or need assistance, please call the Office of the State's Attorney for Baltimore City's Victim and Witness Division at 410-396-1897.