Under this Act, and subject to certain conditions, if you are registered with the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) or the Parole Board of Canada (PBC), you have the opportunity to…
Be informed
When you request it, you have the option of:
- obtain certain information about the offender who has harmed you, his or her progress in custody and his or her release;
- be informed of certain decisions made by the SCC;
- be informed and obtain a copy of CLCC decisions;
- designate a representative to receive information on your behalf;
- listen to the audio recording of the parole hearing if you were unable to attend;
- receive information on victim-offender mediation services offered by CSC.
Be heard and participate
- You can attend the offender’s parole hearing as an observer.
- You have the opportunity to present a Victim Impact Statement on the impact of the crime on you and your loved ones at the CLCC hearings.
- You have the opportunity to express your concerns to the CSC and CLCC about a possible release, by filing a statement.
The CLCC must take reasonable steps to consult with you prior to the removal or modification of certain conditions for the offender’s release.
Being protected
- At your request, the CLCC may impose conditions on the offender’s release, where reasonable and necessary, to protect you, such as a communication ban or geographic restrictions. Such conditions may also be imposed by the CSC when granting unescorted temporary absences, which fall under its authority. If the CLCC or CSC decide not to impose the conditions requested by the victim, they will have to justify their decision.