What is typically included in a victim impact statement?

A victim impact statement is designed to express the emotional, psychological, and physical effects that a crime has had on the victim and their family. This statement provides a personal insight into the consequences of the crime, detailing how it has affected various aspects of the victim's life, such as their mental health, relationships, and daily functioning. This firsthand account is crucial in the judicial process as it helps the court understand the broader implications of the crime beyond the legal facts of the case.

Other elements listed, such as a list of charges against the defendant or testimonies from bystanders, do not belong in a victim impact statement. These components pertain more to the procedural or legal aspects of the case rather than the personal experience of the victim. Suggestions for sentencing may also be relevant in some contexts, but they typically stem from recommendations made by legal representatives or presentencing reports rather than from the victim's personal narrative. Thus, the focus of a victim impact statement remains firmly on the individual experiences and the lasting effects of the crime on the victim's life.