A victim has the right to make a statement at sentencing or disposition in any felony criminal case or juvenile justice disposition.  A statement may also be included in the presentence investigation report prepared in the Bryan Municipal Court.

If the judge orders a presentence investigation prior to sentencing, the victim may present a statement in writing to be included in the report.  (Click here to access printable Victim Impact statements). The judge will review this statement before sentencing the offender, but after a finding of guilt.

Your victim advocate can provide age-appropriate forms or you may choose to write a letter to the court in lieu of completing the form.  Children may express their feelings with a drawing.

If you would like an advocate to assist you in preparing this form, please contact Victim Assistance to arrange a convenient time to meet.

       What is included in Victim Impact Statement?

Your victim impact statement may include: 

a description of the nature and extent of harm, physical or emotional, suffered by the victim as a result of the offense 

explanation of any property damage or other economic loss.  The court may order the offender to pay restitution for financial loss.  Documentation of the loss may be required before restitution is ordered.

a recommendation for an appropriate sentence for the offender’s crime.  This may include incarceration, mental health assessment, drug or alcohol programs, anger management or    batterers’ intervention programming or any other recommendations the victim wants the court to consider.  If you are concerned for your safety, you may ask the judge to order special considerations that will make you feel safer.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to do a victim impact statement?  No.  This is not an “order” of the court.  You have the right to make your feelings known, but you may choose to waive that right and do nothing.