Victim Impact Statements: Making Your Voice Heard in Criminal Court
If you've survived domestic violence and your case is in criminal court, a Victim Impact Statement gives you a chance to tell the judge how the abuse affected your life. Learn how to write one and what to expect.
When someone is convicted of domestic violence, you may have the opportunity to submit a Victim Impact Statement (VIS). This is your voice in the courtroom. It’s a chance to explain—on your terms—how the abuse has affected you and your loved ones.
📘 What Is a Victim Impact Statement?
A written or oral statement describing how the crime has affected your:
Physical and emotional health
Financial situation
Safety and sense of security
Relationships and daily life
Submitted after a conviction, before sentencing
Helps the judge decide on a just and meaningful sentence
✍️ How to Write a Victim Impact Statement
Focus on the effects of the abuse, not the details of the crime (that’s already covered at trial)
Be truthful, clear, and personal—this is your story
You can include:
Ongoing fear or trauma
Loss of housing or income
Impact on your children
Counseling or therapy needs
How your daily life has changed
🛑 What You Should NOT Include
Accusations not proven in court
Opinions on what sentence should be given
Threats, insults, or abusive language
New allegations unrelated to the case
You do not have to write one—it's entirely your choice.
🗂️ How to Submit It
Use the official Victim Impact Statement Form from the court or police
You can write it yourself, or get help from:
Victim Services Ontario
Court support workers
Women’s shelters or legal clinics
You can choose to:
Read it aloud in court
Have it read by the Crown or judge
Submit it in writing only
💬 Do I Have to Testify Again?
No. Submitting a VIS is not the same as testifying
You won’t be cross-examined or questioned by the accused’s lawyer
It’s your statement, for the court to hear and consider during sentencing
🔒 Your Rights and Protections
You can request:
A support person to stand with you
A screen or remote testimony option
To submit it in private
The offender and their lawyer will receive a copy, but your contact info is protected
📌 Summary: What to Know About Victim Impact Statements
✅ You can submit a statement after a guilty verdict in criminal court
✅ It’s a powerful way to describe how the abuse affected your life
✅ You don’t have to read it aloud if you’re not comfortable
✅ Support is available to help you write it
✅ It can help judges understand the full impact before sentencing
📍 Ontario Resources
Victim Support Line (Ontario) – 1-888-579-2888
Legal Aid Ontario – 1-800-668-8258
Assaulted Women’s Helpline – 1-866-863-0511
Barbra Schlifer Clinic – Legal and trauma counselling
VWAP (Victim/Witness Assistance Program) – For court support and VIS help
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to submit a Victim Impact Statement?
No, it is completely your choice. Submitting a VIS is a right, not a requirement. Some survivors find it to be an empowering part of their healing journey, while others may choose not to.
2. Will the abuser's lawyer get to question me about my statement?
No. A Victim Impact Statement is not testimony, and you will not be cross-examined on it. It is your personal account of the impact of the crime, presented directly to the court.
3. What should I not include in my Victim Impact Statement?
You should not include any new, unproven accusations against the offender. You should also not use the statement to express your opinion on what the sentence should be (e.g., "I think he should go to jail for five years"). Your focus should be solely on the impact the crime has had on you.
4. I'm afraid of reading my statement in front of my ex-partner. Are there safety measures available?
Yes. The court can provide safety measures. You can ask for a screen to be set up so you do not have to see the offender, or you can have a support person stand with you. You also have the option of having someone else read your statement for you.
5. Who can help me write my Victim Impact Statement?
You don't have to do it alone. The Victim/Witness Assistance Program (VWAP), which is available in every criminal courthouse in Ontario, has staff who are specially trained to help you write your statement and explain the process.
6. Will the offender get a copy of my statement?
Yes. The offender or their lawyer is entitled to receive a copy of your Victim Impact Statement before the sentencing hearing. This is to ensure the court process is fair and they have a chance to respond to what is said.