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What is a Victim Impact Statement?

A Victim Impact Statement is a written or oral statement presented to the court at the sentencing of the defendant.  Many times victims, their family members, and friends of the victim participate in both written and verbal statements.  More often than not, numerous individuals write letters to the sentencing judge and only a few of those directly connected to the crime speak at sentencing.  Victim Impact Statements were created as an opportunity for the judge to hear how a criminal action has affected you and those that you love.  Victim Impact Statements are not limited to the courts.  Many times, probation or paroling agencies allow for an opportunity to present a statement as well.

How to Write a Victim Impact Statement?

As you are preparing your impact statement, you may find that using the following questions can guide you.  Remember that writing about your feelings may be very painful, so be sure to pace yourself and don’t feel that you need to have it “perfect”.  Be gentle with yourself and take as many breaks as you need.  As you are preparing your statement, you may find that the following questions can guide you:

• How did the crime affect you and your family?
• What was the emotional impact of the crime on you and your family?
• What was the financial impact on you and your family?
• Do you have any recommendations to the court about disposition (sentencing) of this case?
• Is there anything else you would like to tell the court?

The above guidelines do not cover the totality of the impact of crime, but may be used as a starting point.  Victim Impact statements are unique to you and people have various ways of expressing how crime has affected them.  Even though guidelines are typically given to you before sentencing, and there is much flexibility in how you present your statement, there are things you will need to take into consideration.

• Write simply and descriptively.  Your goal is to help the court feel your trauma. While nobody can truly understand what you are feeling, you can help others identify with your trauma by using feeling evoking words and phrases.  Using descriptive words can help people form an image of what you are saying.

Every morning when I wake up, I have to remind myself that my attacker won’t be able to hurt me today. If I don’t tell myself that I simply can’t get out of bed.  Since I was assaulted I have lost the full function of my right leg. I still have to go to the doctor for physical therapy and they fear that I still won’t be able to walk the same. I used to love to run, until my attacker took that away from me.  It hurts emotionally and physically to even make it to work in the morning. When I drive past the place that this all happened I try not to shake in fear.  I can’t sleep most nights without nightmares of my attacker. I so desperately want my life back. The life I had before he took my life away.

• Do address the judge, or paroling authority, when you speak.  You may want to talk directly to the offender.  If this is something you want to do, ask permission from the judge first.  You can still say what you need regarding the offender through the judge.
• Do ask permission if a picture is part of your statement.  More often than not this is allowed, but any visual aids you utilize will need permission from the court first.
• Do write out your statement in advance.  Presenting a statement is emotional.  You may think you know what you want to say but when the time comes, your emotions could take over and your train of thought is lost.  If this occurs, you can read directly from your statement.
• Do have an alternate person that can read your statement in case you cannot finish.
• Don’t directly express your anger toward the court or the offender.  Your goal is to express your hurt and your pain, not to blame.  The blame has already been placed on the offender, so now is the time to talk about what you have been experiencing through your loss.
• Don’t use unsuitable language, as it will diminish the effectiveness of your statement.
• Don’t describe what you want to happen to the offender in prison.  Please do not get descriptive about any harm you would like to see imposed.
• Don’t put personal, identifying information in your letter and do not say it verbally in court.  This includes your physical address, mailing address, email address and phone number.  The offender will be provided copies of all letters submitted.  If you state this out loud in court, it will be another opportunity for the offender to contact you in the future.

What Happens to my Victim Impact Statement?  Do I Have to Read it in Court?

Preparing and presenting an impact statement in court, or in front of a paroling or probation agency, can be intimidating.  If you do not think you can physically stand in front of the offender and read your statement, have an alternate in mind beforehand.  It does not matter who presents your statement as long as you have identified this person in advance.  Many times, victim advocates are asked to present impact statements.  It does not have to be a victim advocate, and should be someone you feel comfortable expressing your words. If you submit a letter, this will become part of the court file, the prosecutor’s file and defense file.  Victim Impact Statements can also be included in the offender’s Department of Corrections file.  It could be subject to public disclosure.  This is why it is essential to not include contact information in your statements, written or verbally.

Why Write a Victim Impact Statement?

It is not mandatory you write an impact statement.  This is a right you have but not one you have to participate in.  Many choose not to participate.  There are several reasons why Victim Impact Statements are beneficial.  The reasons stated below are just a few.

• The judge gets to hear your side of the story.  This is usually the first time this occurs.  Throughout the criminal justice process, the focus is on the offender.  Hearing from those that are affected by the crime puts a face with an often forgotten victim.
• You have a chance to tell the judge how you want sentencing to occur.  More often than not, cases conclude by a plea offer.  Many times the prosecutor and defense have agreed to a recommended amount of time.  The judge is not bound by that agreement.  You can make a difference in the amount of time an offender receives by speaking up.  This is true in cases that go to trial as well.
• You have the opportunity to address the court, and the offender by way of the court, about how the crime has affected you.  Many find this helpful in the journey of victimization.  Letting those know how they harmed you can be beneficial for emotional well-being.
• The impact statement becomes part of the offender’s permanent file.  It is a reminder of the harm they caused you.

Victim Impact Statements How To in SPANISH - Cómo escribir una declaración de impacto en la víctima

***Please note, if you are not able to download the VIS samples below, please try a different web browser and/or clear your web history/cache. Thank you.

VIS Assault Example

VIS Vehicular Assault Example

VIS Assault Example - Spanish

VIS Vehicular Assault Example - Spanish

VIS Attempted Homicide Example

If you have any questions or would like help with a Victim Impact Statement please  contact us .

Victim Impact Statement Example

Legally Reviewed and Edited by: Terry Cochran

Car accidents often lead to severe injuries and disrupt lives, usually because someone is careless. If you suffer a debilitating injury or the loss of a loved one in a crash, you can seek compensation through a personal injury claim. This covers the tangible losses, like medical costs and missed earnings, and the non-economic damages, like pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.

A victim impact statement is a powerful tool for sharing your story with insurers or the court. It expresses the impact of the collision on your life and helps persuade the deciding party to award you full damages.

Our Michigan car accident lawyer at Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. can help you craft a victim impact statement after a car accident to share your story and get the compensation you deserve after someone’s negligent actions change your life.

What is a Victim Impact Statement?

A victim impact statement is a personal account of those affected by a car accident, detailing the event’s aftermath. It can be prepared by the victim or family members who have witnessed the incident’s effects on their loved one’s life. In a wrongful death suit , the victim’s family may share an impact statement regarding the financial and emotional impact of the loss.

This document captures the full scope of the victim’s challenges, including physical injuries, emotional turmoil, and financial strain. It’s often shared with insurance companies as part of a car accident claim but can also be read out loud in court or submitted to a judge in a personal injury case.

Why is a Victim Impact Statement Used in Personal Injury Cases?

A victim impact statement offers the judge a glimpse into the genuine human toll and distress caused by the defendant’s carelessness. It also makes your experience personal, offering the court a deeper look at how the accident has affected you beyond just the financial costs.

This statement is your chance to share the accident’s impact on your life, work, and relationships in vivid, personal terms. By highlighting the emotional and psychological journey of recovery from a serious accident, it aims to convince the judge or jury to provide fair compensation that covers these often overlooked damages.

Components of a Victim Impact Statement

While there is no strict formula, most victim statements contain a few core elements, including:

Guidelines for Writing a Victim Impact Statement

Writing a victim impact statement can be an emotional experience. However, taking the time to craft your message carefully can make it more impactful. To ensure your victim impact statement carries weight and evokes empathy, consider these tips:

• Use descriptive language. Aim for vivid descriptions that create a clear image of the incident and its effects on your life, emphasizing sensory and emotional experiences. For instance, instead of saying, “I was hurt,” opt for, “The accident has left me with debilitating pain that prevents me from walking for long periods.”
• Be honest and authentic. Your car accident victim impact statement should genuinely convey your feelings and the incident’s effect, making it more powerful and relatable. For example, you could say, “The accident left me with not just physical scars, but it also shook my confidence. Now, just getting in a car to go to work or see my loved ones has become difficult.”
• Focus on the future impact. Discuss the immediate aftermath and the incident’s long-term effects on your life. This could include ongoing medical treatments, adjustments in your daily living, or changes in your ability to work and engage in previously enjoyed activities. For instance, “The injuries from the accident mean I can no longer play piano, an activity that was not just a hobby but a part of my identity.”
• Include specific examples of life changes. Explain how your life has changed in specific ways. Doing so adds a personal touch to your story and makes the effects of the incident feel more real to whoever is listening or reading. You might mention, “Before the accident, hiking every weekend was a tradition that brought me closer to my children. Now, due to my physical restrictions, that’s no longer possible, changing how we bond and interact as a family.”
• Think about structure. An impactful statement will have a structure that builds a narrative and is easy to follow. Consider starting with the emotional impact, transitioning to physical injuries and disabilities, and finishing with the financial consequences for you and your family.
• Seek feedback and revision. Ask someone else to look over your statement to sharpen its clarity, strengthen its impact, and ensure it flows well, highlighting any areas needing a touch-up. This could be your lawyer, who can provide insights on sharing your experiences and ensuring your statement fits legal guidelines.

What to Avoid When Writing Your Statement

While writing your victim impact statement, avoid certain pitfalls that could undermine its effectiveness and credibility. Some common statements to avoid include:

• Blaming or expressing anger. Avoid directing blame or expressing anger toward the court, the defendant, or their legal representatives. Instead, focus on describing the impact of the accident on your daily life and the challenges you have faced as a result. Avoid “the defendant did…” statements and stick to “I feel” and “I believe.”
• Exaggerating the details. Your statement should be honest and accurate, showing how you truly feel. Avoid exaggerating the impact on your life or making untrue declarations. If you can’t remember or feel emotionally numb, it’s okay to share that as part of your experience and the accident’s impact on your mental state.
• Using inappropriate language. Maintain a respectful and professional tone throughout your statement, and follow your attorney’s advice on courtroom etiquette. Avoid using inappropriate or offensive language; these actions could weaken your testimony’s impact and damage your credibility.
• Seeking retribution or revenge. Avoid pushing for revenge or punishment against the person at fault in your statement. Doing so can go against the fairness and justice the legal process aims to uphold. Instead, focus on getting compensated for your losses and ensuring the responsible parties are held accountable.
• Revealing personal identifying information. For your privacy and safety, do not share personal details like your address, phone number, or social media accounts in your statement.

To see how you might write a statement for a personal injury case, here’s an example of a victim impact statement from a car accident:

The victim introduces himself and states the nature of his lawsuit, offering a clear timeline and details about the accident and his injuries.

“Your Honor, my name is David Smith, and I am the plaintiff in this automobile negligence lawsuit. On October 15th, 2022, a distracted driver ran a red light at the intersection of Griswold and W. Congress Street in Detroit. They were traveling at high speed and T-boned my vehicle. I sustained multiple compound fractures requiring emergency surgery to stabilize the shattered bones in my leg and arm.

He outlines the physical recovery and ongoing medical needs, touching on the emotional and relational fallout as a direct result of his injuries.

Even after months of grueling physical therapy, I cannot put weight on my leg without crippling nerve pain. My doctor says I’ll likely need further surgeries and may face permanent disability, preventing me from returning to my construction job. The emotional trauma has strained my relationship with my wife and kids.

The victim highlights the financial impact, including medical expenses and the threat of losing his home. This illustrates the broader consequences of the accident on his and his family’s life.

My medical bills are over $350,000 and climbing with no end in sight. Since I can’t work, we risk losing our home to foreclosure. A lifetime of hopes, dreams, and security has been shattered through no fault of my own.

In closing, he appeals to the court for compensation. This position positions his request as a matter of justice and necessity, given the devastation caused by the defendant’s negligence.

I’m a hard-working American who played by the rules, and one reckless driver’s negligence has destroyed my life and my family’s future. Please award damages so I can pay my medical bills, future surgeries, and daily living expenses while unemployed.

Working With an Attorney

Collaborating with an attorney on your victim impact statement can improve its impact in court. At Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C., we specialize in personal injury law and bring extensive experience to each case. Here’s how we can assist in refining your victim impact statement:

• Guide on structure. We can explain how to organize your statement to ensure the key points stand out. This can include an easy-to-follow story that flows from before the accident to its aftermath on your life to show its full effect.
• Explain judicial expectations. Our knowledge of the legal system helps tailor your statement to meet specific judicial standards. We can explain how to present your experiences in a way that resonates with a judge and jury while allowing you to fully express your pain and suffering.
• Leverage unique expertise. Partner attorney Eileen Kroll , a registered nurse, brings her medical background to provide unique perspectives on detailing medical injuries and the recovery journey. Eileen and her team are skilled at crafting descriptions that are both medically accurate and easily understood by those without a medical background.
• Refine language. We assist in choosing words that convey the gravity of your experience, advising on how to express complex emotions and facts clearly and compellingly. This can help you persuade the court on your behalf and receive maximum compensation .
• Prepare for court presentation. Once your statement is prepared, we will guide you in delivering it to the courtroom. We can provide tips on presentation and coping strategies for managing emotions during this high-stress moment.

Seek Justice for Your Car Accident Case

If you or someone you love has had their life changed by a serious Michigan car accident, get the legal representation you need. Speak with our compassionate, knowledgeable Cochran, Kroll, & Associates, P.C. attorneys.

We can review your case, guide you through the claims process, and draft an impactful victim impact statement for your car accident case. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Our contingency fee basis means we only get paid if we win your case, so there is no financial risk to you to get started. Call our law firm today at 1-866-MICH-LAW and schedule your no-obligation, free case evaluation.

Disclaimer : The information provided is general and not for legal advice. The blogs are not intended to provide legal counsel and no attorney-client relationship is created nor intended.

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How to Write a Victim Impact Statement

Domestic abuse survivors have the right to tell a judge how a crime has affected them.

• By Amanda Kippert
• Jan 15, 2024

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A victim impact statement is a written account of how a victim, their family members or friends have been impacted by the actions of a perpetrator. Not only relegated to domestic violence crimes, victim impact statements can be submitted by the victim of any offense. They are given to a judge often at or before the sentencing of a defendant. Though not required, they are a right that victims can exercise if they so choose to. The impact statement can be the first time the judge hears the victim’s side in their own words, or through the words of a loved one. 

Victim impact statements can also be the first time a survivor or their loved ones may address the perpetrator directly if they feel comfortable doing so. We saw a powerful example of this in the 2018 trial of Larry Nassar, the former team doctor for the USA Gymnastics team who sexually abused at least 265 girls and women over the span of his career. An astounding 204 women stood up at his trial to read victim impact statements aloud. One by one, these survivors bravely faced the court and Nassar himself to share how his actions had affected their lives. 

Kyle Stephens was only 6 years old when Nassar began to abuse her. She read her powerful statement to Nassar directly.

"You used my body for six years for your own sexual gratification. That is unforgivable. Perhaps you have figured it out by now, but little girls don't stay little forever. They grow into strong women that return to destroy your world."

How to Write a Strong Victim Impact Statement

Former attorney and current domestic violence advocate Barry Goldstein says victim impact statements can be a powerful tool to make a survivor heard. 

“[During the] victim’s rights movement this was one of the things that was implemented. It can be a factor in determining a defendant’s sentence,” explains Goldstein. 

“In the case of domestic violence,” he says, “It can be dangerous to read it in front of an abuser, but sometimes, they [the survivor] do want the abuser to know what they did.” While many people could know an abuser from the persona they display in public, it may be very different from how he acted behind closed doors. 

“Many court professionals fail to realize this, and that’s a piece of context to definitely include,” says Goldstein.

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Questions to ask before writing a victim impact statement.

Advocates suggest domestic violence survivors or support persons ask themselves the following questions before beginning to write a victim impact statement. These questions can help the writer figure out what they want to say to a judge and how they want to say it. 

• What kind of emotional impact has the crime had on you?
• How has your ability to relate to other people changed as a result of this?
• What specific injuries are you suffering due to the crime?
• What kind of financial impact has the crime had on you? Did you have to miss work, move or are you facing substantial hospital or therapy bills?
• How long do you expect to receive treatment as a result of this crime?
• How else has your life or your family’s life changed as a result of this criminal’s actions?
• If you are a friend or loved one of the victim, talk a little about victim and what kind of person he or she was. What kind of relationship did you have with them?

Advocates warn not to put personal information into the statement, like your address, phone number, email address, place of employment or where your children go to school. The offender will be able to view a copy of this statement.

Writing a Statement After Her Sister’s Murder 

Tene Goodwin wrote a victim impact statement after her younger sister, Taitu Goodwin, was murdered in 2019 by an ex-boyfriend. 

“She was a victim of domestic violence during the relationship. When she ended it, he broke into her house and killed her,” Tene says. 

The sisters were very close. “My life was essentially destroyed and also the same for my family,” Tene says.

In her statement, Tene described how her sister’s life was just beginning, how she had recently graduated with a master’s degree in law and international trade and started a new career just six months prior. She had a family who loved her, especially her young nephew and nieces. She wrote how it was all taken away just three months after her sister’s 27th birthday by a jealous, hateful ex-boyfriend who refused to let her end a relationship and murdered her instead.

Tene says she suffered severe panic attacks in the aftermath of her sister’s murder. She couldn’t be around people she didn’t know, especially men. She couldn’t go to work or barely even leave the house. The rest of her family was just as traumatized. 

She says getting it down on paper was therapeutic. 

“Before I wrote the statement, any time I had a panic attack or felt on the brink of despair, I felt extreme guilt because I thought, ‘I wasn't the one murdered. I shouldn’t be feeling this way.' But after writing down the impact of her murder on me I realized the way I felt was valid,” says Tene.

Ultimately, Tene decided not to submit the victim impact statement. 

“Testifying was its own traumatic event and afterward, in my emotional exhaustion, I just .. I didn’t have the energy. But more importantly, I felt like the act of writing it was what gave me the courage to be able to testify and so it had served its purpose.”

She hopes other survivors find the courage to write their own victim impact statements. 

“There's so much silence around domestic violence crimes and I think it’s [victim impact statements] a way to regain strength by using your voice to speak up about what was done to you. Oftentimes there's a lot of gaslighting in domestic violence, so for victims to be able to assert their experience and the impact on them can be pivotal to their healing.”

Victim Impact Statements Don’t Guarantee Harsher Sentences

Stephanie wrote a victim impact statement after being the survivor of an armed robbery. 

“A friend and I were robbed by a stranger coming out of a Subway. We were held at gunpoint but managed to run away in two different directions. My friend slipped on ice, the gunman caught up to him, pointed the gun into his abdomen and said he'd shoot him if I didn't return.”

Stephanie went back to the robber who put the gun to her head. He forced Stephanie and her friend to walk to an abandoned house where he said he was going to kill them, but they were able to run away. The robber fired his gun, but Stephanie and her friend escaped unharmed.  

She chose to write a victim impact statement but says it didn’t have the effect she hoped for. 

“Words didn't hold a candle to what had happened in my body. I thought my testimony should be sufficient because I covered a lot of the same territory in both… I tried to share the impact of what had happened but, so soon after the incident, I was still in shock and couldn't even process it.”

Stephanie felt like her statement didn’t make a big difference in sentencing. 

“The judge didn't even sentence him to required minimums, somehow. He should have gotten at least 25 years and got seven.”

Goldstein says that whether the victim impact statement affects sentencing “very much depends on the judge.” 

“Sometimes they read them and sometimes they don’t,” he acknowledges. This means that survivors who chose to write them should know this going in. Is the potential retraumatization of reading the statement out loud worth it?

Justice can look different to different survivors. A victim impact statement may be a part of that, or it may not. Read, “ What Does Justice Look Like for Abuse Survivors ?” for more information. 

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Sample Victim Impact Statements

On November 10, 2007 Jay Dooley beat me. He slammed my back over the top of my chain link fence over and over and pulled my hair forcing my neck as far back as he could. He turned me around and started slamming me into my fence hitting my chest against the fence. He punched me in the neck, chest, and abdomen. He kept threatening to punch me in the face. He tried to break my arm. I begged him to stop while trying to protect my face. He slammed me face first into the side of my house and tried to pull my pants down, grabbing me and bruising my inner thighs.

Your Honor,

In the interest of the court, I want to state briefly the effects that the criminal actions of Rosemary Catherine Davis have had on me.

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• Victim Personal Statements

If you have been the victim of a crime, you are the only person who can fully appreciate the impact it has had on your daily life, work and relationships. For this reason, you may be asked to write a Victim Personal Statement (VPS) if a case goes to court. This is an opportunity for you to express in your own words how the crime has affected you emotionally, physically, or financially. It gives you a voice and gives the court an insight into what you have experienced and the effect it has had on your life.

You may be asked if you wish to read your statement out in court, but someone can do this on your behalf if you prefer. Even if your statement is not read out in court, it will still be seen by those involved in the trial and they will have a better understanding of the impact on you. That does mean that the statement will also be shared with the defence and that they may ask questions about your statement if you are giving evidence. The VPS is a formal statement, so you will need to sign a declaration confirming that it is true to the best of your knowledge.

Victim First can help you to prepare a VPS, so you won’t have to start from a blank page. There are some rules about what can, and can’t be said, but we can help you with this.

You may include… 

• Details of any physical or psychological harm you have suffered the impact on your family
• If you no longer feel safe
• If the quality of your day-to-day life has been affected
• Any concerns about the alleged offender being given bail
• Views on the crime being motivated by your race, faith, sexuality or disability
• The need for additional support as a result of the crime
• Your wish to claim compensation from the offender for any injury, loss or damage

You are not permitted to include…

• Your thoughts or opinion about appropriate punishment for the alleged offender
• Any unsubstantiated claims

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• GOV.UK - VPS

3 Powerful Victim Impact Statements That Make a Difference

Writing a powerful victim impact statement is an opportunity to convey the emotional, physical, and financial effects that a crime has had on your life.  Below are three unique templates to help guide you in crafting your own impactful statement.

Template 1: Detailed Emotional and Psychological Impact

[Your Name] [Case Number] [Date]

Honorable [Judge’s Name],

I am writing this victim impact statement to share the profound emotional and psychological toll that this crime has had on my life. On [date of the crime], my life was irrevocably changed, and the scars of that day will stay with me forever.

Before this incident, I was a [briefly describe your life before the crime]. I was [mention any positive aspects of your life, such as being happy, secure, confident, etc.]. 

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However, since the day of the crime, I have been living in a constant state of fear and anxiety. Simple tasks that once brought me joy now trigger intense panic attacks. I struggle to sleep, and when I do, I am haunted by nightmares that replay the events of that terrible day.

My relationships have also suffered. I find it difficult to trust others, and I have become withdrawn from those I once loved dearly. The crime has not only taken away my sense of security but also stripped me of my ability to feel safe in my own home and around other people.

I respectfully ask the court to consider the emotional and psychological devastation this crime has caused me when determining the sentence. The impact on my life is immeasurable, and I hope that justice can be served to bring some sense of closure.

Thank you for considering my words.

[Your Full Name]

Template 2: Emphasis on Physical and Financial Impact

I am submitting this statement to express the severe physical and financial impact that the crime committed on [date of the crime] has had on my life. The events of that day have left me not only physically injured but also financially burdened, and I am still struggling to recover.

As a result of the crime, I suffered [describe physical injuries, e.g., broken bones, lacerations, chronic pain]. These injuries required extensive medical treatment, including [mention surgeries, therapies, medications, etc.]. 

Despite the medical care I have received, I continue to experience pain and limitations in my daily activities. I am no longer able to [mention any activities you can no longer perform], which has significantly diminished my quality of life.

In addition to the physical injuries, the financial impact has been overwhelming. The cost of medical treatment, coupled with the loss of income due to my inability to work, has put me in a precarious financial situation. 

I have had to deplete my savings and incur debt just to cover basic living expenses. The financial strain has added an extra layer of stress to an already difficult situation.

I urge the court to take into account the extensive physical and financial damage I have endured when considering the appropriate sentence for the offender. The repercussions of this crime will affect me for the rest of my life, and I seek justice that acknowledges the full extent of my suffering.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Template 3: Focus on the Broader Impact on Family and Community

I am writing to provide a victim impact statement that not only reflects the personal suffering I have endured but also highlights the broader impact this crime has had on my family and community. The events of [date of the crime] have reverberated far beyond my own life, causing distress and fear among those close to me.

Since the crime occurred, my family has been living in a state of constant worry. My [mention family members, e.g., children, spouse, parents] have been deeply affected by what happened to me. 

They have had to witness my pain, support me through countless difficult days, and adjust to the changes in my personality and daily life. The emotional toll on them has been immense, as they struggle with their own fears and anxieties stemming from the crime.

Moreover, this crime has shaken the sense of security within our community. Neighbors who once felt safe now live in fear, worried that something similar could happen to them. The sense of trust and camaraderie that once defined our neighborhood has been replaced by suspicion and unease.

I ask the court to consider the far-reaching consequences of this crime when deciding on the sentence. The impact extends beyond just me—it has disrupted the lives of my loved ones and the fabric of our community. Justice in this case should reflect the broader harm caused.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my experience.

These templates can be personalized to fit your specific situation, helping you to clearly communicate the impact of the crime on your life, your loved ones, and your community.

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Victim Impact Statement Example

1800THELAW2 > Auto Accidents Legal Resources > Victim Impact Statement Example

Questions and topics this article can help to answer: What is a victim impact statement? | How to write a victim impact statement | Do’s and don’ts of writing a victim impact statement for a car accident | Example of a victim impact statement | Why write a victim impact statement ?

What Is a Victim Impact Statement?

A victim impact statement is a personally written account of how the car accident affected you. Many times, a serious car accident can have long-standing consequences. It’s an opportunity for a victim to explain the full extent the car accident may have had. For example, a police report may mention that the victim had a broken leg. 

But, what might not be mentioned is the other consequences, like:

• Time off of work
• Hospital bills
• Cost and time of physiotherapy appointments
• Canceled vacations or plans
• Stress, anxiety, or depression when it comes to driving
• The impact of the injuries and accident on friends and family

Your victim statement is a comprehensive overview of how the individual’s life has changed due to the car accident.

What Are Victim Impact Statements For?

Victim impact statements give you – the victim – a voice. They serve as evidence and help to build a case against the defendant who wronged you.

Are Victim Impact Statements Used in Court?

Yes. Victim impact statements can be used to prove your case and demonstrate the impact the accident had on you. They can help to persuade a jury to understand why you’re claiming the damages you seek, and why you deserve this compensation. 

Avoid Exaggerating the Details

We’ll cover the do’s and don’ts of powerful victim impact statements below. However, this is a point worth highlighting: you should never exaggerate details in a statement. Stick to how you truly feel and what you remember. 

Even if you can’t recall too many details, that’s ok. Just be clear and focus on your true feelings. And if you felt numb or you’re unsure how much the accident affected you, this is ok to say, too. Never take the chance of lying or exaggerating in a document which could be used in court.

How to Write a Victim Impact Statement

Before we look at a phrasing sample, or victim impact statement example, here are some points to bear in mind. 

• Victim impact statements should be in your own words. 
• Focus on the impact of the incident on your life. You don’t need to describe the accident  in detail – that’s not what the statement is for. 
• Clearly set out the physical, mental, emotional, and financial impacts one at a time. 

Remember, this is your statement. Your opportunity to explain how your life has been affected by an incident which was not your fault. Take your time over the statement and be as detailed as you can.

Examples of How to Structure a Victim Impact Statement

How do you put all of this information into a statement? It might seem overwhelming at first, but here are the steps to walk through. 

Start with the emotional impact

Transition into your physical injuries and disabilities

Emphasize the financial consequences

Start With the Emotional Impact

You can discuss how you felt that day and how you feel now. You were probably scared and shocked on the day and might still feel anger and fear today. Describe these emotions in as much detail as you can, so the jury can understand just how emotionally traumatizing the car accident was.

Transition Into Your Physical Injuries and Disabilities

After covering the emotions, you can transition into your physical injuries and disabilities. You’ll want to cover how much these injuries hurt, how long and challenging recovery has been, if recovery made you take time off work, time lost with family, friends, hobbies, and other consequences. 

You may want to wrap this up in a personal story. Some common examples are having to cancel a booked and paid vacation because you were recovering. Or, having to become a burden and reliant on your family members during recovery, which impacted them as much as you. You need to go over these details, so the jury understands the full consequences of your injuries.

Emphasize the Financial Consequences

Lastly, you’ll want to emphasize the financial consequences. This will help the jury decide the amount of accident compensation you and your family may deserve. You can cover how much this accident cost you in terms of:

• Healthcare and recovery costs
• Wages lost at work

Powerful Impact Statement Example

Want to see an example of a successful victim impact statement? Let’s now look at a victim impact statement example and what we can learn from it. 

Your Honor,

On August 25, 2022, at the intersection of Fir Street and 96th Avenue in San Diego, California, I was in a car accident with Mr. Jones. The accident happened at approximately 2:00 in the afternoon. My car was totaled as a result of the accident and I walked away with a broken arm.

The victim quickly summarizes what happened, confirming the date and time of the accident and the pertinent details. 

That day, I had left work for a brief period to go to a routine doctor’s appointment. It was easily the most shocking and traumatizing experience of my life having a car ram into the side of my driver’s door. 

The victim emphasizes how shocked and traumatized they felt at the time (the emotional impact). 

I couldn’t get out of the car and I sat there shocked with my arm pinned under the wheel. The paramedics arrived on the scene and were able to pull me out. I remember screaming in pain like I have never screamed before. I was taken to the hospital and informed I had broken my arm.

It’s clear they were in a distressing situation and in a lot of physical pain. These are the types of details to include in a victim impact statement. 

It took nine weeks for me to fix my broken arm. I had to cancel a vacation I had booked for Mexico. I also had to move into my parent’s home, so my mom could take care of me. 

We feel sympathy for this victim because their life has been turned upside down after the car accident.  

I became a burden to those I love most, needing help eating, changing my clothes, showering, and more. I couldn’t even go to the grocery store and take my debit card out of my wallet to pay for my groceries. I needed someone to come with me everywhere I went. I felt helpless, useless, and an annoyance to everyone.

The victim uses their own words to describe just how badly the incident affected them. It’s common for victims to feel guilty for needing assistance after an injury – we can feel the victim’s despair from this statement. 

During my recovery, I had to take a leave of absence from work, losing nine weeks of wages. The hospital bills alone were tremendous, but I have also been in six months of physiotherapy. Not only are those appointments expensive, but they take up my time every week.

We’re covering the physical extent of the injury now. The details are clear and they give credence to the victim’s emotional suffering. We’ve also covered various losses, including wages and physiotherapy. 

Today, I still don’t have full use of my arm. There’s a dull pain that shoots down my arm constantly. More importantly, I haven’t driven a car since the accident. I still have trouble getting into a car. 

I experience flashbacks and sometimes have panic attacks.

The victim moves on to explaining the emotional and long-term impact of the accident on their wellbeing. This concludes the statement and leaves a powerful impression. 

This accident has shattered me in every single way – financially, mentally, physically, and emotionally. I don’t know when I will be the same again, but it’s quite possible I’ve been changed forever. I ask the court to consider the full impact this accident has had on my life when deciding on a settlement. The jury needs to understand that I am not who I used to be and it’s been hard to reconcile that for myself, my family, and my friends.

Thank you for listening to me today.

The Do’s & Don’ts of Writing a Victim Impact Statement for a Car Accident

Hopefully you found that example victim impact statement helpful. While writing your own victim statement, try to keep these common do’s and dont’s in mind:

• Do: Write in “I feel” and “I believe” statements rather than definitive “The defendant did…” statements. You should only include what you believe to be true, as the defendant can question the legitimacy of your statements.
• Don’t: Use this as an opportunity to go over the details of the accident and lay blame on the defendant.
• Do: Express your emotions clearly, add details, and paint a picture of what you’ve been through.
• Don’t: Mention the type of punishment you think or want the defendant to receive.
• Do: Have someone review your statement for proper spelling and grammar.
• Don’t: Swear in your statement; it can cause the jury to see you in a negative light.
• Do: Staple and include related paperwork that can help verify your statements, such as receipts.

Before handing it to your attorney, read your statement. Once you’re happy that it makes sense and reflects how you feel, you can turn it in. 

Get More Victim Impact Statement Examples

If you’re still unsure how to draft your statement, you can find other victim statement examples online. Or, you can refer to the victim impact statement guidelines for criminal cases (which can still be helpful for civil claims). 

Your accident lawyer can also explain how you might structure your statement (but they can’t write it for you or tell you what to say).  

Find an Accident Lawyer Near You Today

Contact 1-800-the-law2 for legal representation with an accident attorney.

If you’ve been in a car accident or another collision, consider getting legal representation so you and your family can get the maximum compensation for your injuries. Our experienced car accident lawyers have helped thousands of injured drivers get their rightful compensation. 

We’ll help you in every step of the process, including your victim impact statement for your car accident. Contact us today for a free consultation .

Our offices are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so we can assist you no matter when your accident occurs.

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A Guide for Writing Victim Impact Statements

For life-sentenced adult inmate parole consideration hearings.

Submitting a Victim Impact Statement

Any person may submit a written statement to OVSRS ( [email protected] ) or the Board of Parole Hearings ( [email protected] ).

Right to Attend and Testify

After the offender is committed to an institution within the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR), you have the right, as a victim of crime, to attend the offender’s parole hearings to give a statement (Penal Code Section 3043). This is your opportunity to tell the people making decisions about the offender who committed the crime against you how you and your loved ones have been affected by the crime. Your victim impact statement ensures that your voice is heard.

A parole hearing is a hearing to determine whether an inmate should be released on parole. Only adult inmates sentenced to life in prison with the possibility of parole receive parole hearings. An example of a life sentence with the possibility of parole is when an inmate is sentenced to serve a term of “15 years to life.”

Inmates serving such sentences are automatically eligible for a parole hearing 13 months prior to their “minimum eligible parole date” or MEPD. An inmate’s MEPD is the earliest possible date they can be released, based on their sentence. Just because an inmate has been scheduled for a parole hearing does not mean he or she will be released on parole. The Board of Parole Hearings (BPH) will determine whether inmates are suitable for parole. Inmates sentenced to life with the possibility of parole are not entitled to parole and can be held in prison for life.

To attend the parole hearing in person, call the Office of Victim and Survivor Rights and Services toll free at (877) 256-6877 when you receive your hearing notice.

What is the purpose of a victim impact statement and how is it used?

Victim impact statements provide an opportunity for panel members to understand how this crime has affected you, your family, and those close to you. Many victims have found it helpful to voice how their lives have been impacted by the crime committed against them physically, financially, emotionally and even spiritually. Victims and their family members speak last at parole hearings, just before the panel deliberates. Statements usually range from 5-15 minutes in length.

Without your input many offenders may never know the true impact of their actions.

What should I include in my statement?

Only you know how to best describe the effects this crime has had on you and those close to you. We realize it may be difficult to describe in words how this crime has affected you. To assist you with your thoughts and feelings, it is recommended you write an impact statement on paper.

If you would like to share the emotional and mental impact you may consider:

• How life has changed for you and those close to you.
• How your ability to relate to others has changed.
• Any counseling or other support you have obtained.
• Fees incurred for counseling or therapy for you and your family.
• Certain details of the crime and the offender’s actions you want the panel to know.

If you or your family members were injured you may wish to describe:

• The specific physical injuries you or members of your family have suffered.
• How long your injuries lasted or how long you expect them to last.
• Any medical treatment you have received or expect to receive in the future and the medical expenses you have incurred.
• Your inability to work and lost wages.

Do I have to make a victim impact statement?

It’s your choice whether you make a victim impact statement. However, no one knows better than you how this crime has changed your life. It is very important for you to help the panel members understand all of the ways this crime has affected you and those close to you. Whether or not you choose to submit a victim impact statement is a decision made by you and your family. It is a voluntary right that you have as a victim of crime.

Transcripts

Crime victims can request transcripts of Parole Suitability Hearings 30 days after the hearing date. For more information visit: www.cdcr.ca.gov/BOPH/psh_transcript.html or call 1-877-256-6877

Victim personal statements

A victim personal statement (VPS) allows you to say, in your own words, how a crime has affected or continues to affect you. It is considered when a case goes to court and a person pleads guilty or is found guilty.

Who can make a victim personal statement

You can make a VPS if you are the direct victim of the crime.  Where a victim is deceased, or they are unable to make a statement due to their physical or mental health, someone else can write it such as a close family member or representative (where the Victim and Witness Care Unit are made aware of this).   A bereaved family member can make a statement on behalf of other family members.  If you are under 18, your parent or guardian can make a VPS instead of, or as well as you. 

About victim personal statements

If a decision is taken to prosecute someone for a crime committed against you, the Victim and Witness Care Unit will write to you, or a bereaved family member or representative (where they are known). They will tell you about the decision to prosecute and let you know that you can make a VPS.

Your VPS must be made before any sentence is passed. If a VPS is not submitted in enough time before the sentencing date, generally it will not be possible to delay the case for this purpose.

In some cases, for example, where there is an early guilty plea, the case is dealt with at the first court appearance or decisions are taken very rapidly, it may not always be possible for a victim personal statement to be submitted ahead of sentencing.   In some cases conviction and sentencing may take place on the same day.

You do not have to make a statement if you do not want to - it is entirely your choice. If you decide not to make a VPS, it will not damage the case in any way.  No one will assume that you are unaffected by the crime.

A VPS is different from an Expert Witness Impact Report which the court may commission from, for example, a medical expert.

Making a victim personal statement

You must contact Victim Support NI , NSPCC Young Witness Service (if the victim is a young person) or your PSNI Family Liaison Officer (for a family member bereaved through murder, manslaughter or a road death) in order to make the statement.  Ideally you should contact them once you know the trial, or contest, date or if the defendant pleaded guilty.  They will advise you about what your statement can/cannot contain and help you prepare the VPS.

The VPS should be recorded by, or be made through, Victim Support NI, NSPCC Young Witness Service or the PSNI Family Liaison Officer (with their advice).  You should prepare a draft statement ahead of meeting them.  You must sign and give the statement to them once finalised.

Your statement should set out the impact on you as the victim or, if the victim is deceased, the impact on the family member completing the statement.  It may also reflect on how it affects the victim’s close family.  The types of impacts you may include are:

• physical injury
• emotional impact of the crime, if it has affected your feelings or emotional wellbeing
• social impact, including how you interact with people
• financial impact, including any money or property lost as a result of the crime, or inability to work

The focus must be on how you have been affected as a result of the crime (or the person on whose behalf the VPS is being made), not on what actually happened.  You should not describe the detail of the crime itself – the court will hear about this separately.  You should not give your views on the defendant, any other or alleged offences, or any punishment that you think should be imposed – that is for the judge alone to decide.

Before the VPS is given to the judge, the Public Prosecution Service will remove any information that should not be in the statement (known as redaction).  You may be asked to provide medical evidence to support your statement.

Once you have completed the statement, you will need to sign each page and make a declaration that the statement is true to the best of your knowledge and belief. Keep in mind that you could be prosecuted if there is anything in the statement that you know to be false or do not believe to be true.

If you are under 18, your statement must be witnessed by another person who is over 18.

Withdrawing or changing your statement

Once you have made a victim personal statement you cannot withdraw or change it. However, if you feel you have found further longer term effects of the crime you may be able to make another statement that updates the information provided in the first one.

You should contact Victim Support NI , NSPCC or your PSNI Family Liaison Officer about this.  Any additional statement would be submitted to the court, along with the original statement.

Victim personal statements in court

If the case goes to court and the defendant is found guilty or pleads guilty, the VPS will be seen by the prosecutor, the defendant, their legal representative and the judge, ahead of any sentencing.  After the VPS is submitted it forms part of the case papers.

It will tell the judge about how the crime has affected, or continues to affect, you before he or she passes any sentence.

The judge or the defence could decide to ask you questions in court about the content of your statement.  You therefore need to substantiate its content.

You are not entitled to read your statement aloud in court.    The judge may refer to, or make public, as part of their sentencing comments, part(s) of the VPS. This means it could be read out in court and reported in the media.  Your VPS should state if you object to part(s) of it being referred to in court or in the judgement.

The judge alone decides the sentence in each case, taking account of a wide range of issues including the maximum sentence available in law, any aggravating or mitigating factors in a case, any case law and any other guidance that is available such as sentencing guidance.  The judge will be required to consider a VPS that is provided ahead of sentencing.

Engaging with other criminal justice service providers

Where you engage with other criminal justice service providers (the Northern Ireland Prison Service, the Probation Board Northern Ireland or the Youth Justice Agency) they may find it helpful to see your VPS.  This could help them provide services to you.  In such cases you should tell them you want them to see your VPS.  They will take your written consent and get your VPS.

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Making a Victim (Impact) Statement

A Victim (Impact) Statement is different to the other statements we ask you for. It is also called a victim statement. This is your opportunity to tell the court how the crime has affected you:

• in your health – mental or physical
• in your finances – your money situation

If you are invited to submit a Victim (Impact) Statement, it is your choice if you do so. You do not have to give one. If you are under the age of 12, you cannot complete a Victim (Impact) Statement yourself, however, a parent or carer can complete the form on your behalf.

What goes in a Victim (Impact) Statement

Victim (Impact) Statements may include details of how a crime has affected you, including if it has led you to suffer:

• physical injuries
• changes to your mood, anxiety or confidence levels
• damage to relationships
• loss of your income, property or ability to earn

It is important for your statement to be accurate as you may be asked about it.

You should avoid:

• details about the crime – the trial will go into anything relevant
• your views about the accused person
• how the crime has affected other people, such as your children
• separate incidents and offences
• opinions on sentencing

How to submit a Victim (Impact) Statement

If it is appropriate, we will include a form with your citation letter. Complete and send it back to us by the date shown.

When Victim (Impact) Statements are used

Your Victim (Impact) Statement will be given to the court if:

• the accused pleads guilty at any stage
• the judge or jury gives a guilty verdict

The judge will see your Victim (Impact) Statement before sentencing. This means that the judge can take into account the impact that the crime has had on you. Your Victim (Impact) Statement will also be disclosed to the defence at this stage.

Your Victim (Impact) Statement will not usually be disclosed to the defence before the stage of sentence. However, in some instances there will be a duty to disclose the content - or part of the content - of your Victim (Impact) Statement to the defence at an earlier stage. For example, there may be a duty to disclose if the statement contains material information about the crime, e.g. information that strengthens the defence case, information that weakens the prosecution case or information that may be led during the trial.

Related items

• Victim Information and Advice (VIA) service
• Attending court: guide for victims and witnesses

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