Criminology Research Council grant ; (20/91)
This report presents the findings of an evaluation of Victim Impact Statements (VIS) in South Australia. The evaluation covered three main areas; the effect of VIS on the criminal justice process; the effect of VIS on victim satisfaction with the criminal justice system; and the effect of VIS on sentencing outcomes.
A series of interviews with members of the legal profession contributed to an assessment of the effects of VIS on the criminal justice process.
The study examined the effect of VIS on sentencing outcomes by analysing sentencing trends in the Supreme and District Courts before and after the introduction of VIS. In addition a multivariate analysis was conducted on assault cases finalised before and after the introduction of VIS.
It is the opinion of the researchers that the South Australian Experience with VIS will provide support for the positions of both those in favour and those against VIS. Opponents of VIS will point to the very minimal changes and improvements which have occurred as a result of the introduction of VIS. On the other hand, those in favour will argue that the evaluation dispels fears about their supposed detrimental effects and they will continue to maintain their belief in the presumed benefits of VIS if properly implemented.