What do I write?

There are a few rules about making a victim impact statement.  You should include information about the effects of the crime, such as:

• If you suffered physical injuries, a description of those injuries including any pain suffered and any treatment you have had or may still be having, together with a statement about how those injuries have impacted on your life.
• If you suffered financial loss, details of the loss and how the loss has impacted on your life and lifestyle.
• If you have suffered emotional or psychological harm, a description of how you have suffered (including any treatment) and any impacts on you, your relationships and family, your work, and your lifestyle.
• Any other effects that you believe are important and should be considered by the court.

You should not include:

• any detailed description of the crime (the prosecutor will provide this information to the court)
• any abuse or vilification of the convicted person
• offensive language
• comments on the police, court or justice systems
• an opinion on the sentence that the courts should give

Concentrate on how the offence has affected you and your family.

When you are making a victim impact statement as a result of the unlawful death of a family member, you might wish to include a description of your loved one, such as:

• who that person was to you
• the life they led
• your relationship with them
• whether you were dependent on them for emotional, financial or physical support
• how your life has changed as a result of their death