What is a "victim impact statement"?

A victim impact statement is a declaration presented in court that describes how a crime has affected the victim emotionally, physically, and financially. This statement is a crucial part of the legal process, as it gives the victim a voice and allows them to convey the personal and societal consequences of the crime directly to the court. It can include details about the victim's emotional trauma, pain and suffering, any physical injuries sustained, and financial losses incurred as a result of the criminal act. This information can significantly influence sentencing decisions, as it helps the judge and jury understand the broader impact of the crime beyond just the legal aspects.

The other options do not accurately reflect the purpose and nature of a victim impact statement. A written account detailing the impact on the community focuses more on the societal effects rather than the personal implications for the individual victim. A statement read by the defendant would be more focused on the defendant's perspective rather than the victim's experience. A document outlining financial implications for the state does not center on the victim's personal experience with the crime, which is the primary objective of a victim impact statement.