When You Are The Victim
RCW 7.69.030 — the rights of victims, survivors of victims, and witnesses
A reasonable effort to ensure them. A reasonable effort is made to ensure that victims, survivors of victims and witnesses have these rights in any adult or juvenile criminal proceeding. Among them:
- For victims of violent or sex crimes, a written statement of victims' rights when the crime is reported.
- To be told the final disposition of the case.
- Protection from harm and threats arising from cooperating with law enforcement and prosecution, and information on the protection available.
- Whenever practical, a secure waiting area away from defendants and their families or friends.
- The expeditious return of stolen or other property when it is no longer needed as evidence.
- Employer intercession services to minimize loss of pay and benefits from court appearances.
- For victims of violent and sex crimes, a crime victim advocate or other support person present at interviews and proceedings.
- To be physically present in court during trial, and not to be excluded solely because they have testified.
At sentencing. A victim may submit a victim impact statement to the court, with the prosecutor's help if requested, included in all presentence reports. In a felony or domestic violence case, victims and survivors may present a statement at the sentencing hearing, personally or by representation, and in every felony case are entitled to an order of restitution unless extraordinary circumstances make it inappropriate.
If a right is denied. The person may petition the superior court in the county where the crime occurred for an order directing compliance, with notice to the parties; compliance is the only remedy, and the court expedites the petition.
Several of these rights apply only on request, or only to the offenses the section names. How they apply in a particular case is a question for a licensed Washington attorney.
Sources for this section (1)
- RCW 7.69.030 — Rights of victims, survivors, and witnesses
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Washington attorney.