Victims' rights

This timely volume defines victims' rights and describes how law, politics, social activism, victim's advocates, and victim impact evidence affect the status of this issue in the United States. Providing a detailed chronology of key events related to the promotion of victims' rights and the enforcement of stiffer penalties for criminals, this book also contains biographical sketches of individuals who have significantly contributed to upholding and extending victims' rights. Also included are current policies, crime-related legislation, and important Supreme Court cases. A directory of organizations that serve to protect the interests of crime victims describes each organization's function and purpose. The comprehensive bibliography of print and nonprint resources gives students access to additional information that promotes a better understanding of and sensitivity to victims' rights. Students, legislators, victims' advocacy groups, and journalists will find Victims' Rights to be a valuable resource on this timely topic.