What role do victims have in the juvenile justice process?

Victims play an important role in the juvenile justice process, primarily by being allowed to provide impact statements and attend hearings. This involvement acknowledges the significance of the victim's experience and perspective, which can be crucial in informing the court about the effects of the crime. Impact statements allow victims to articulate how the offense has affected their lives, which can influence the outcome of the proceedings and the disposition of the case. Furthermore, allowing victims to attend hearings ensures that they have a presence in the judicial process, promoting transparency and respect for their rights.

The option indicating that victims have no involvement in the process overlooks the rights and input that victims can provide, which has increasingly been recognized in justice systems. The choice suggesting that victims decide the sentences for juvenile offenders misrepresents the role of the judicial system, where the judge ultimately determines the sentence based on various factors, including the law and the details of the case. Lastly, stating that victims can only observe the proceedings minimizes their active contribution, as they are not merely passive observers but have the opportunity to engage meaningfully through statements and participation.