Victim Impact Statements
A victim's input is valuable at all stages of a criminal case. The Office of the District Attorney won't begin to provide victim support services until the case is opened in our office, which may be several days or weeks after an offender is arrested by law enforcement. Before the DA has the information, the arresting agency will typically be a victim's point of contact. Sexual assault crimes and domestic violence crimes may involve additional immediate resources of support, such as through a child advocacy center or victim focused non-profit. Once the offender is sentenced, the Georgia Office of Victim Services picks up support and notification services for offenders sentenced to either probation or prison.
Under Investigation or
Recently Arrest
Before the DA's Office gets the case, the arresting agency will benefit from a victim's documentation of healing injuries, any unwanted contact by the offender or other efforts to ensure the full picture of harm suffered by a crime victim is effectively communicated as the case moves forward.
Pending Completion of Prosecution
If you have a case pending with the DA's Office, please complete the victim impact form below. We need this information even if you decide you do not wish to speak at or even attend the sentencing. It will help our team evaluate the case and your needs so that we can make sure you know what may be available to you.
On Sentence
(Prison or Probation)
The Georgia Office of Victim Services will be your point of contact for needs arising out of the offender's crime, such as enforcement of no contact conditions, payment of restitution, or finding out an offender's location. For imprisoned offenders, your input is vital to parole decisions as well.
The introduction of oral victim impact testimony is controlled by O.C.G.A. § 17-10-1.2, and the introduction of such evidence is solely within the discretion of the trial court. In presenting such evidence, the victim, the family of the victim, or such other witness having personal knowledge of the impact of the crime on the victim, the victim’s family, or the community shall address the following issues, if applicable: (1) Describe the nature of the offense; (2) Itemize any economic loss suffered by the victim or the family of the victim; (3) Identify any physical injuries, describing their seriousness and permanence; (4) Describe any change in the victim’s personal welfare or familial relationships; (5) Identify any request for psychological services; and (6) Include any other information related to the impact of the offense upon the victim, the victim’s family, or the community that the court inquires of.
Crime Victim Impact Statement
Post-Conviction (GA Office of Victim Services)
Georgia Office of Victim Services (OVS) was created to ensure victims have a voice during the post-sentencing phase of the criminal justice process. Georgia OVS works in concert with the Department of Community Supervision and Pardons and Paroles to provide information and notifications regarding offender status and supervision location. Additionally, Georgia OVS assists with addressing restitution issues, enforcing “no contact” orders, and offers programs that promote victim restoration.