Victims' Rights

In Washington State, there are certain rights afforded victims and survivors. These rights are listed in RCW 7.69.010 and in the Washington State Constitution, Article I, Section 35.

The Indeterminate Sentence Review Board (ISRB or Board) supports victims' rights. The Board makes sure victims and survivors may make a statement during release/parole proceedings for inmates under the Board’s authority. Victims and survivors of ISRB cases can expect:

  • Notification of upcoming hearings.
  • Assistance with preparing a statement to the Board.
  • Answers to questions about the decision making process.
  • Notification of the Board's final decision about the release/parole of an inmate.
  • Witness fee and mileage if subpoenaed to testify at violation or revocation hearings.
  • Special accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Washington State Constitution

Article I, SECTION 35 VICTIMS OF CRIMES -- RIGHTS. Effective law enforcement depends on cooperation from victims of crime. To ensure victims a meaningful role in the criminal justice system and to accord them due dignity and respect, victims of crime are hereby granted the following basic and fundamental rights.

Upon notifying the prosecuting attorney, a victim of a crime charged as a felony shall have the right to be informed of and, subject to the discretion of the individual presiding over the trial or court proceedings, attend trial and all other court proceedings the defendant has the right to attend, and to make a statement at sentencing and at any proceeding where the defendant's release is considered, subject to the same rules of procedure which govern the defendant's rights. In the event the victim is deceased, incompetent, a minor, or otherwise unavailable, the prosecuting attorney may identify a representative to appear to exercise the victim's rights. This provision shall not constitute a basis for error in favor of a defendant in a criminal proceeding or a basis for providing a victim or the victim's representative with court appointed counsel. [AMENDMENT 84, 1989 Senate Joint Resolution No. 8200, p 2999. Approved November 7, 1989.]

Washington Crime Victims' Bill of Rights (RCW)

7.69.010Intent.
7.69.020 Definitions.
7.69.030 Rights of victims, survivors, and witnesses.
7.69.040 Representation of incapacitated or incompetent victim.
7.69.050 Construction of chapter -- Other remedies or defenses.

Child Victims' Bill of Rights

7.69A.010 Legislative intent.
7.69A.020 Definitions.
7.69A.030 Rights of child victims and witnesses.
7.69A.040 Liability for failure to notify or assure child's rights.
7.69A.050 Rights of child victims and witnesses -- Confidentiality of address -- Notice of right -- Penalty.

Crime Victims' Bill of Rights-Dependent Persons

7.69B.005 Intent--Finding.
7.69B.010 Definitions.
7.69B.020 Rights enumerated.
7.69B.030 Testimony--Videotaped depositions.
7.69B.040 Liability for violating chapter--Actions based on other state or federal laws.
7.69B.900 Severability--2005 c 381.