Washington legal term
Victim impact statement in Washington Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Washington legislative session
In Washington criminal law, “Victim impact statement” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Washington criminal code.
What does “Victim impact statement” mean in Washington criminal law?
"Victim impact statement" means a statement submitted to the court by the victim or a survivor, individually or with the assistance of the prosecuting attorney if assistance is requested by the victim or survivor, which may include but is not limited to information assessing the financial, medical, social, and psychological impact of the offense upon the victim or survivors. (RCW 7.69.020)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.