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ARIZONA STATE SENATE

Phoenix, Arizona

 

FACT SHEET FOR S.B. 1009

 

victims’ rights memorial

 

Purpose

 

Authorizes the placement of a victims’ rights memorial in Wesley Bolin Plaza.

 

Background

 

Article 2, section 2.1 of the Arizona State Constitution sets forth the Victims’ Bill of Rights to preserve and protect victims’ rights to justice and due process.  A victim of crime has the constitutional right to be treated with fairness, respect and dignity and to be free from intimidation, harassment or abuse throughout the criminal/juvenile justice process.  In addition, the following victims’ rights apply after an arrest has been made:

 

a)      to receive notification of scheduled court dates.

b)      to talk with the prosecutor about your case and give input.

c)      to make a Victim Impact Statement.

d)      to receive notification of the sentencing outcome.

e)      to be present at any hearing where the defendant has a right to be present.

f)        and to refuse to participate in an interview with the defense attorney. 

 

During the 2001 Victims’ Rights rally at the State Capitol, a tree was planted in memory of crime victims at the Wesley Bolin Plaza grounds.  S.B. 1009 allows the placement and dedication of a victims’ rights memorial near the tree in Wesley Bolin Plaza.

 

There is no fiscal impact to the general fund associated with this legislation.

 

Provisions

 

1.      Allows, in accordance with statutory procedures, the placement of a victims’ rights memorial in Wesley Bolin Plaza.

 

2.      Repeals this act on January 1, 2006.

 

3.      Provides for a general effective date.

 

 

Prepared by Senate Staff

January 9, 2002