Photo AI
Which of the following is true of a victim impact statement? (A) It allows a victim to recommend a punishment - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 17 - 2014 - Paper 1
Question 17
Which of the following is true of a victim impact statement? (A) It allows a victim to recommend a punishment. (B) It provides evidence for the prosecution in the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Which of the following is true of a victim impact statement? (A) It allows a victim to recommend a punishment - HSC - SSCE Legal Studies - Question 17 - 2014 - Paper 1
Step 1
Which of the following is true of a victim impact statement?
Answer
The correct answer is (D) It must be received by the court in writing after the conviction of the defendant.
A victim impact statement is a document that allows victims to present the impact of the crime on their lives. However, its submission has specific rules, notably that it must be provided to the court in writing after the conviction.
The other options are incorrect because:
- (A) Victims do not recommend punishments; only the judge has the authority to impose sentences.
- (B) The statement is not typically used as evidence for the prosecution but rather serves to inform the court of the victim's experience.
- (C) It does not exclusively have to be provided by the direct victim, as other affected parties may also submit statements.