The right to fairness and respect:
Victims of crime (VOC) have a right to be treated with fairness and respect for dignity and privacy by all members of any department, institution, agency or organisation, including the police, the prosecutors and officials of the court: to prevent secondary victimisation
The right to offer information:
VOC have a right to offer information: during the criminal investigation and trial. This includes participation in the criminal proceedings by attending bail hearings, the trial, sentencing proceedings and or Parole Board hearings
The right to receive information:
VOC have a right to receive information on: basic rights, explanations in own language, case related documents, status updates of the case - whether or not the offender has been arrested, charged, granted bail, indicted, convicted or sentenced this includes the right to request for reasons for a decision to prosecute, or not
The right to protection:
VOC have a right to be protected against intimidation, harassment, fear, tampering, bribery, corruption and abuse. Subject to certain requirements a VOC may be placed in a witness protection programme for own protection. This right includes, in certain circumstances, the prohibition of publication of any information including the identity of the VOC, or court may order for proceedings to be heard in camera
The right to assistance:
VOC have a right to request assistance regarding: access to social, health and counselling services and legal assistance and the explanation of police procedures. In matters such as domestic violence, sexual offences and child support or maintenance the VOC has a right to special measures - including where available, the matter should be heard in specialised courts
The right to compensation:
VOC have a right to compensation (an amount of money): for loss of or damage to property suffered. The VOC has a right to be present during sentencing of the accused and request the prosecutor to apply for a compensation order ( as per s297 & 300 of the Criminal Procedures Act 51 of 1977)
The right to restitution:
VOC have a right to restitution: where the court orders the accused to return or repair (damaged) property or goods that have been taken or damaged unlawfully during the commission of the crime (Source: Service Charter for Victims of Crime in South Africa, 2004)