The Colorado Victim Rights Amendment became effective in 1993. The purpose of this amendment is to guarantee victims of violent crime a voice in the criminal justice system.

Victims of crime may experience physical injury, emotional harm or financial loss. Once the crime is reported, victims may feel powerless within the criminal justice system. Colorado law enforcement and all components of the criminal justice system are working to empower every victim of a violent crime.

On the following pages you will find the specific rights afforded to victims of violent crime, the enumerated crimes and the critical stages in the criminal justice system. This information is intended to give you a basic understanding of victim rights.