Federal organizations such as the crown or RCMP are not bound by this act. Victim Services works to have victims’ rights respected throughout the criminal justice system.
Who is a victim under the Yukon Victims of Crime Act
A victim of crime is someone who suffered harm as the result of an offence. The act identifies 5 kinds of harm:
- bodily injury;
- mental injury;
- emotional pain;
- economic loss; and
- loss of property.
You can be a victim under the Yukon Victims of Crime Act even if:
- no charge was laid; or
- the accused was not convicted.
Other victims
A victim who has been harmed by the offence could be a:
- family member; or
- guardian.
A person might suffer harm because of an offence against someone else. For example, a person who sees a close relative assaulted might suffer emotional pain.
If the victim is a young child
A guardian or caregiver can receive information and services for a child.
What if the victim is not able to exercise their rights?
Any of the following individuals may act for a victim under this act:
- the victim’s spouse;
- the person living with the victim in a conjugal relationship for at least 1 year;
- a relative or dependent of the victim;
- a person responsible for the care or support of the victim, or a dependent of the victim.
What are your rights?
The Yukon Victims of Crime Act states that victims of crime have the right to:
- get information about the justice system;
- express their views;
- have their property returned when it's no longer needed as evidence; and
- have their needs considered when victim programs and services are developed.
The Victims of Crime Act also includes 3 basic rights. The right to:
- be treated with courtesy, caring and respect;
- privacy;
- expect that reasonable measures consistent with the law will be taken to:
- minimize their inconvenience; and
- protect them from intimidation and retaliation.
The Act recognizes that protecting the dignity and safety of a person serves the well-being of the whole community.
Learn more about the Yukon Victims of Crime Act.