Victims' rights - by country

Can I appeal against the ruling?

Yes, but as a victim, you can only appeal against the operative part of the ruling on the compensation for damage, non-pecuniary harm or restitution of unjust enrichment.

What are my rights after sentencing?

See other replies.

Am I entitled to support or protection after the trial? For how long?

Support (professional assistance) may be provided even after the end of judicial proceedings until such time as required by its purpose. Special protection (mentioned above) can often mean a lasting change in the way of life and is therefore, by its nature, provided even after the end of the criminal proceedings.

What information will I be given if the offender is sentenced?

At your request, you will be given the final ruling, which contains information on the punishment and its form. If you claim a claim for damages or non-pecuniary harm or for unjust enrichment, the ruling will always be delivered to you.

Furthermore, a prison or an institution providing security detention or protective treatment will, at your request, give you some additional information, especially about:

• the release or escape of the convicted person from prison, security detention or protective treatment;
• suspension of imprisonment;
• extradition of the convicted person to a foreign state or his or her transfer to an EU Member State.

If the accused has been released or escaped and you are in danger due to being a witness, the competent authorities are required to immediately inform the police, who will take the necessary measures to ensure your safety and inform you.

Will I be told if the offender is released (including early or conditional release) or escapes from prison?

Yes, see above.

Will I be involved in release or parole decisions? For example, can I make a statement or lodge an appeal?

At any time during the criminal proceedings, you have the right to make a statement about the impact of the crime on your life so far.

However, you are not entitled to appeal against a decision on conditional release or on good behaviour of a conditionally convicted person.