What rights do crime victims have in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, crime victims have established rights that are crucial for ensuring they have a voice and can participate meaningfully in the judicial process. One of the key rights afforded to victims is the right to notifications and attendance at court proceedings. This means victims are entitled to be informed of significant events in their case, such as hearings, trials, and sentencing. They also have the right to attend these proceedings. This engagement helps victims feel acknowledged and involved, which can be an important aspect of their recovery process.

While anonymity during a trial can be a concern for some victims, particularly in sensitive cases, it is not a guaranteed right under North Carolina law. The ability to choose jurors is not a right granted to victims; jury selection is typically the function of the prosecution and defense. Similarly, while victims can seek civil damages, this is not the sole right they possess, and it does not encompass the full set of rights aimed at allowing their participation in the criminal justice system.