What is a victim impact statement? This refers to a statement in which the victim of a crime details how the incident has impacted their life.
A Michigan sexual abuse lawyer can help you draft an impact statement and build a case that may allow you to hold a perpetrator accountable for their actions and recover damages from them.
What a Victim Impact Statement Includes
A victim impact statement is an opportunity to let the court know how a crime has affected you emotionally, financially, physically, and psychologically. The statement allows you to detail these things in your own words. It can explain to the court how a crime is making it tough for you to enjoy your life to the fullest extent.
A sex abuse lawyer may suggest using a victim impact statement if you file a civil lawsuit against a perpetrator. It can be difficult to describe how you are feeling about a crime, and your lawyer can help you craft your impact statement. Ultimately, your statement may compel a judge or jury to empathize with you and order the defendant in your case to pay damages.
At White Law PLLC, we understand the impact of sex abuse and many other crimes. We have recovered over $1.4 billion in damages in personal injury lawsuits and can help you craft a victim impact statement that resonates with the court. Contact us for more information.
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When You Can Submit a Victim Impact Statement
You can submit a victim impact statement if your case goes to trial. For example, you can hire a Michigan clergy sex abuse lawyer to represent you in a sex abuse case. Your statement could be presented as evidence, and you can read the statement aloud if you disclose your identity or submit it alongside other legal documentation.
If you want to sue someone and use an impact statement as proof against them, you have a limited amount of time in which you are allowed to do so. Per Michigan Compiled Laws section 600.5805, the statute of limitations for most personal injury lawsuits is three years. However, there are some exceptions.
In a sexual assault case, you may have up to 10 years to sue someone for damages. If you are considering a lawsuit based on sexual assault or any other harm you have incurred, meet with a personal injury lawyer. Next, your lawyer can explain how long you have to file a civil lawsuit in Michigan and if a victim impact statement is a viable option in your case.
Tips to Help You Craft a Victim Impact Statement
For assistance with a victim impact statement, consult with a personal injury attorney. Choose a lawyer who has helped clients achieve outstanding case results, and they will give your statement the attention it deserves. Your attorney may offer several tips to help you prepare your statement, such as:
Be Honest and Specific
If a crime has impacted your well-being and safety, include details about this in your statement. Stick to the facts as you describe how a crime is affecting you. Whenever possible, share examples that highlight how a perpetrator’s actions hamper your ability to live the life you want.
Use Clear and Concise Language
Avoid jargon in your statement. Make sure the information you submit is easy to understand and illustrates how badly a crime is impacting you. Your lawyer can help you edit your statement.
Utilize “I” Statements
Describe a crime from your own point of view. With “I” statements, you can tell the court what you are feeling due to a perpetrator’s actions. These statements can be powerful, and they could help compel a judge or jury to rule in your favor.
Avoid Exaggerating or Speculating
Provide relevant information about a crime without stretching the truth. At the same time, do not make assumptions about the offender or why they may have chosen to commit a crime. Instead, focus on what you have been experiencing as a result of the crime, and a judge or jury is likely to understand your perspective.
Create a Journal
Write down your thoughts and feelings about a crime in a journal. It may be months or years between the date you file a personal injury lawsuit and when you submit your statement. Your journal allows you to gather your thoughts and feelings so you can express them accurately when the time comes for you to do so.
In addition to these things, it helps to partner with a lawyer who has received many positive client testimonials. This attorney can walk you through the process of filing an impact statement and address any concerns or questions you have along the way. They can also put you in a great position to achieve your desired case result.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
What to Expect if You Submit a Victim Impact Statement in Michigan
Your victim impact statement can stir up emotions. If you are worried about what to include in your statement and whether you have the inner strength to move forward with it, seek legal help. Work with a personal injury lawyer who is empathetic and compassionate, and they can assist you throughout your legal proceedings.
If you submit a victim impact statement, you do not necessarily have to read it aloud. Your attorney or someone else may read the statement for you, or you can file the statement in writing. In either scenario, you can explain to the court how a crime’s impact on you and why you believe you should recover damages from the defendant in your case.
A victim impact statement can be beneficial, as it allows you to speak out against a perpetrator and can boost your chances of receiving damages from them. In your lawsuit, a judge or jury will consider your statement in conjunction with other evidence you provide. If you have a compelling case, you may be well-equipped to get damages.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Request Legal Help Today
The legal team at White Law PLLC can discuss what a victim impact statement is and its potential impact on your personal injury case.
We are available to evaluate your case and discuss your legal options with you. Schedule a free case consultation with us.
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