Florida Amends Constitution, Becoming 40th State to Grant Victims' Rights
What Does This Mean for Crime Victims in Florida?
On November 8, 2022, Florida voters overwhelmingly approved Amendment 6, a constitutional amendment that enshrines victims' rights in the state's constitution.
The amendment adds a new section to the Florida Constitution, known as the "Marsy's Law" provision, which is named after Marsy Nicholas, a California college student who was stalked and murdered by her ex-boyfriend in 1983. Marsy's Law has been adopted in 11 other states, including California, Illinois, and Ohio.
The Florida amendment includes the following key provisions:
- Crime victims have the right to be notified of all criminal proceedings involving the accused, including the right to be present at all hearings.
- Crime victims have the right to be heard at all sentencing hearings and any other proceedings involving the accused, and to provide input on the disposition of the case.
- Crime victims have the right to be protected from intimidation and harassment by the accused and their associates.
- Crime victims have the right to a speedy trial and to the prompt disposition of the case, and to be treated with fairness and respect by the criminal justice system.
How Will This Impact the Criminal Justice System in Florida?
The amendment is expected to have a significant impact on the criminal justice system in Florida. By giving crime victims a greater voice in the criminal justice process, the amendment will help to ensure that their rights are protected and that they are treated with respect and dignity.
The amendment is also expected to lead to a number of changes in the way that criminal cases are handled in Florida. For example, prosecutors may be more likely to offer plea deals to defendants in order to avoid having to go to trial and face the victim in court.
Overall, the amendment is a significant victory for crime victims in Florida. It will help to ensure that their voices are heard in the criminal justice system and that they are treated with the respect and dignity that they deserve.
