Your Rights

Under the Maryland Constitution, state law, and established guidelines, victims of crime must be treated with dignity, respect, and sensitivity throughout all phases of the criminal justice process. If you or someone you know has been affected by a crime, it’s important to understand your rights:

• Be Notified of Court Events Related to Your Case: You have the right to receive timely information about all significant court proceedings, including hearings, trials, and sentencing.
• Be Present at Court Proceedings: You have the right to attend all court events related to your case, unless the court determines that your presence could influence your testimony.
• Be Heard Before Sentencing is Imposed: You have the right to provide a victim impact statement, sharing how the crime has affected you and your family before the offender is sentenced.
• Receive Restitution from the Offender: You have the right to seek and receive financial compensation from the offender for expenses such as medical bills, property damage, or lost wages resulting from the crime.
• Be Informed of Any Plea Agreement: You have the right to be notified of any plea agreement between the prosecutor and the offender, and to provide input on the proposed agreement.
• Be Protected from Intimidation or Harm: You have the right to request protections, such as no-contact orders, to safeguard you from further harm or intimidation by the offender.
• Stay Informed About the Offender’s Case After Conviction: You have the right to be updated on the offender’s status, including parole hearings, appeals, and other changes related to their custody.
• Access to Victim Assistance Services: You have the right to receive information about and access to resources like counseling, support groups, and victim advocacy services to help you navigate the aftermath of the crime.
• Request Confidentiality: You have the right to request that your address, phone number, and other personal information be kept confidential to protect your privacy and safety.

These rights are designed to ensure that you are informed, supported, and given a voice throughout the legal process. If you need help understanding your rights or accessing services, please reach out to My Covenant Place. We are here to guide and advocate for you.