Victims' Rights

Irish law has set out specific rights for victims of crime. These rights are designed to help ensure that all victims are treated with respect, sensitivity and dignity. For more information about specific rights, you can view the Crime Victims’ Rights booklet.

crime

Victims
Charter

The Department of Justice has created a Victims Charter that describes what victims can expect from the criminal justice system.

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When You
Report a Crime

When you first contact the Gardaí (Irish police) or the Garda Ombudsman Commission, you are entitled to be offered a wide range of information.

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At Court

When a case makes its way to court, victims have a number of rights to help protect them from repeat victimisation.

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Special
Protections

While investigating your case, the Gardaí will decide whether you need special supports or protections.

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If Your Rights
Aren’t Respected 

In Ireland, no one person or organisation is responsible for receiving and investigating complaints that a victims’ rights have been violated. However, there are a few steps that you can take if you think your rights have not been respected. 

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Get Help Now

The Crime Victims Helpline is a listening and support service for victims of crime in Ireland. We provide time and space for victims to talk about their experiences. We also answer questions about the criminal justice system and help victims understand their rights.

Support Services

If you or a friend or family member has been impacted by crime, there are a number of organisation in Ireland who can help.