Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
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Why do we need victims’ rights in Florida?
Currently, the U.S. Constitution and every state constitution include rights for individuals accused of a crime and those convicted of a crime. Yet, many state constitutions still lack clear, enforceable enumerated rights for crime victims.
Marsy’s Law for Florida provides victims with constitutional standing equal to that of the accused and convicted – no more, no less. Despite being the ones harmed by criminals, victims are often treated as if they have no stake in the legal process. Through Marsy’s Law for Florida, victims have an equal voice throughout the criminal justice process.
To see the full list of victims' rights in Florida, please click here.
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Does providing rights for victims take away the rights from those accused or convicted of a crime?
Those accused or convicted of a crime have rights under the U.S. Constitution and Florida Constitution. Marsy's Law for Florida doesn't hinder, block, take away, or impact these rights in any way.
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How can the public stay safe if reporters aren't able to provide all the details of a crime?Marsy’s Law for Florida grants victims the right to keep their personally identifiable information private, preventing them from being located or harassed after a crime. This provision does not affect a reporter’s ability to effectively report other details of a victim’s case.
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Does Marsy’s Law for Florida limit the time allowed for appeals?
Marsy's Law for Florida does not limit the amount of time for appeals, rather it creates a reporting mechanism for appeals that extend beyond two years in non-capital cases and five years in capital cases.
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Is Marsy’s Law for Florida a burden on prosecutors?
Communicating and notifying victims should already be a standard part of a prosecutor’s job. Many already do this, but Marsy’s Law for Florida ensures all victims of crimes in Florida receive information about their case in a consistent fashion.
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Does the victim’s right to privacy conflict with the defendant’s the right to confront the accuser?
A victim's right to privacy under Marsy's Law does not obstruct or invalidate the defendant's right to confront their accuser. All witnesses to a crime, including victims, are still subject to cross-examination by the defendant during trial.