The Use of Victim Impact Statements in Sentencing for Sexual Offences: Stories of Strength

This book examines the experiences of sexual offence victims who submit a victim impact statement in Australia, and the perspectives of justice professionals. It identifies issues with the clarity of the purpose of impact statements, the balance between expressive and instrumental purposes, and the challenges in communication between professionals and victims. The findings highlight the need for recommendations to clarify regimes, improve communication, and enhance the therapeutic goals of impact statements.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 206 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Drawing on extensive research from Australia, this book delves into the profound experiences of sexual offense victims who bravely share their victim impact statements in the legal process. These statements serve as powerful tools in sentencing, outlining the devastating harm inflicted upon victims. Regrettably, there has been limited research on the impact statement experiences of sexual offense victims, leaving a significant gap in our understanding of their journey. This book aims to bridge that gap, presenting the perspectives of six adult female victims and 15 justice professionals in Australia. Additionally, an in-depth analysis of 100 sentencing remarks sheds light on how courts utilize these statements in practice.

The book explores the intricate process of victims preparing and submitting their impact statements, as well as the experiences of justice professionals who work closely with them to facilitate this crucial step. It uncovers an overarching lack of clarity surrounding the purpose of impact statements, which hinders the inclusion of relevant information and affects the court's ability to effectively utilize them. Consequently, the book delves into the complex issues surrounding balancing the expressive and instrumental purposes of impact statements, as well as the challenges in communication between justice professionals and victims of crime.

The findings from this research are eye-opening and highlight several areas for improvement within impact statement regimes. Based on these findings, the book offers recommendations to clarify these regimes, enhance communication between justice professionals and victims of crime, and further promote the therapeutic goals of impact statements.

This book is a must-read for anyone engaged in victimology, sentencing, and sexual violence. It provides a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of the victims' experiences, offering valuable insights into the legal system and the importance of supporting victims throughout their journey. By shedding light on the complexities of impact statements and advocating for reforms, this book contributes to a more just and compassionate approach to addressing sexual offense victims' needs.

Weight: 272g
Dimension: 139 x 216 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367524227