In 1992, Colorado voters passed an amendment to the Colorado Constitution giving victims of violent crime specific rights within the criminal justice system. The Legislative declaration of the Victim Rights Act (C.R.S. 24-4.1-301) states:
The general assembly hereby finds and declares that the full and voluntary cooperation of victims of and witnesses to crimes with state and local law enforcement agencies as to such crimes is imperative for the general effectiveness and well-being of the criminal justice system of this state. It is the intent of this part 3, therefore, to assure that all victims of and witnesses to crimes are honored and protected by law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and judges in a manner no less vigorous than the protection afforded criminal defendants.
While we work hard to protect victims' rights, the court must also ensure these rights don't interfere with the constitutional rights of the accused.
The District Attorney and staff work daily to keep victims informed, allow them to be heard when necessary, and ensure they are present at all important stages of the criminal justice process. For more information about victims' rights, please check the links below or contact our office at (970) 498-7200.
Colorado revised statutes
- 24-4.1-302. Definitions
- 24-4.1-302.5. Rights afforded to victims
- 24-.41-303. Procedures for ensuring rights of victims of crime
Non-English Resources
Enforcing your rights
If you feel that your rights have been violated, you should attempt to seek compliance on the local level:
Office of the District Attorney
Victim/Witness Program Director
201 LaPorte Avenue, Suite 200
Fort Collins, CO 80521-2763
(970) 498-7200
If all local efforts to obtain your rights have failed, you may request assistance from the Coordinating Committee:
Colorado Department of Public Safety
Division of Criminal Justice
700 Kipling Street, Suite 1000
Denver, CO 80215-4442
(888) 282-1080
Office for Victims Programs
