Missouri crime victims will often receive a document from the prosecuting attorney that is called a “Victim Impact Statement.” This is a form to be filled out by the crime victim and returned to the prosecuting attorney. The purpose of this document is three-fold. First, it allows victims to tell the prosecutor how involved they [...]
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Missouri Proposed Crime Scene Photograph Law
Missouri crime victim families might see some relief from a proposed law filed by Missouri House of Representatives member Scott Largent. Read the full bill here. Essentially the bill limits the disclosure of sensitive crime scene photographs. Although it will still be necessary to provide the photographs to defendants in the context of a criminal case, [...]
When Can I Start My Civil Case?
Sometimes, Missouri crime victims wonder when they can begin a civil lawsuit against the responsible parties. They question whether they have to wait for the criminal case to be concluded before proceeding on a civil claim for damages. The short answer to this question is no, they do not have to wait for the criminal [...]
How Is Bond Determined?
Crime victims sometimes have questions about how bond is set in a Missouri criminal case. Judges generally use two factors in determining the appropriate bond. First of all, the judge will determine whether the defendant represents a risk of danger to the community. If a defendant is alleged to have committed a violent offense, his [...]
