Without the participation and cooperation of crime victims and witnesses, the criminal justice system would cease to function. The rights of these individuals should be given full recognition and protection. The State has the responsibility to enhance and protect the necessary role of crime victims and witnesses in the criminal justice process. In furtherance of this, the improved treatment of these persons should be assured through the establishment of specific rights. These rights are among the most fundamental and important in assuring public confidence in the criminal justice system.

Crime victims and witnesses are entitled to the following rights:

1. To be treated with dignity and compassion by the criminal justice system

2. To be informed about the criminal justice process

3. To be free from intimidation

4. To have inconveniences associated with participation in the criminal justice process minimized to the fullest extent possible

5. To make at least one telephone call provided the call is reasonable in both length and location called

6. To medical assistance if, in the judgment of the law enforcement agency, medical assistance appears necessary

7. To be notified if presence in court is not needed

8. To be informed about available remedies, financial assistance and social services

9. To be compensated for their loss whenever possible

10. To be provided a secure, but not necessarily separate, waiting area during court proceedings

11. To be advised of case progress and final disposition

12. To the prompt return of property when no longer needed as evidence

13. To submit a written statement about the impact of the crime to a representative of the county prosecutor's office which shall be considered prior to the prosecutor's final decision concerning whether formal criminal charges will be filed

14. To make, prior to sentencing, an in-person statement directly to the sentencing court concerning the impact of the crime. This statement is to be made in addition to the statement permitted for inclusion in the presentence report by N.J.S. 2C:44-6. In any homicide prosecution the victim's survivor may display directly to the sentencing court at the time of this statement a photograph of the victim taken before the homicide.