How do Victim Impact Statements (VIS) function in the sentencing process?

Victim Impact Statements (VIS) play a crucial role in the sentencing process by providing insight into how a crime has affected the victims and their loved ones both emotionally and psychologically. These statements allow victims to express the personal consequences they have suffered as a result of the crime, including physical harm, emotional distress, and changes to their lifestyle.

By incorporating this personal perspective, the court gains a deeper understanding of the impact of the offense beyond the legal facts of the case. This can help the judge make more informed decisions during sentencing, as it emphasizes the human element of the crime and highlights the need for justice not just in terms of punishment, but also for the restoration of the victim's dignity and support.

Other options center around misunderstandings of the purpose of VIS. For instance, they are not exclusively focused on financial claims; they encompass a broader emotional and psychological context. They do not play a role in determining guilt or innocence, as that is established during a different phase of the trial process. Similarly, while VIS may influence the sentencing decision, they are not a mechanism for appealing sentences. Their primary function is to inform the court about the victim's experience and promote restorative justice.