Victims' Rights

Members of the George Washington University who are the victim of a crime that occurs within the District of Columbia, Virginia or Maryland have specific rights under the law. Please keep these rights in mind as you explore the resources offered on this page and as you move forward with your recovery.

GW Victim Rights

To file a report of with the George Washington University Police Department (GWPD) and have it listed on our annual crime statistics in accordance to the Clery Act of 1990.
To file a confidential report with the George Washington University Police Department.
To have GWPD provide information on how to file a report with Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
To have a report adjudicated by the Division of Student Affairs, Title IX Office or University Human Resources, as appropriate.
To the rights afforded in the Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy and Threats & Acts of Violence Policy.
Access to the University’s confidential resources in the Office of Victim Services and Student Health Center regardless of whether a police report is filed.
To be informed of ways to obtain medical, counseling, crisis response, legal, campus disciplinary and/or confidential victim advocacy services.
To request immediate help in obtaining assistance from the resources available through GW.

District of Columbia Victim Rights

To be treated with fairness and with respect for the victim's dignity and privacy.
To be reasonably protected from the accused offender.
To be notified of court proceedings.
To be present at all public court proceedings related to the offense unless the court determines that testimony by the victim would be materially affected if the victim heard other testimony at trial.
To confer with the attorney for the Government in the case.
To restitution.
To information about the conviction, sentencing, imprisonment, detention, and release of the offender.
To be notified of any available victim advocate or other appropriate person to develop a safety plan and services.

Adapted from the Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants

Virginia Victim Rights

The right to victim and witness protection and law-enforcement contracts. The right to financial assistance.
The right to receive timely notification of judicial proceedings.
The right to input.
The right to courtroom assistance.
The right to post trail assistance.

Adapted from the Code of Virginia

Maryland Victim Rights

Treated with dignity, respect, and sensitivity.
Informed of their rights.
Notified of crisis intervention and counseling services.
Notified of domestic violence programs and support groups.
Notified of criminal injuries compensation and other social services available.
Informed on how to apply to services.
Told of protection available to them and how to obtain protection.
Informed by the police or the State’s Attorney of the arrest of a suspect and closing of the case.
Notified of court hearings and offender custody status.
Permitted to be present and heard at criminal justice proceedings.
Permitted to seek restitution from their offender (s).
Permitted to request notice about any DNA profile or report in their case.

Adapted from the Maryland State Board of Victim Services