What is the purpose of Marsy's Law?

Marsy's Law is designed to provide victims of crime with specific rights that are intended to ensure their participation and protection throughout the criminal justice process. This law emphasizes the importance of granting victims comparable rights to those afforded to the accused, focusing on their well-being, dignity, and role in legal proceedings. This includes the right to be notified of court proceedings, the right to be present at those proceedings, and the right to be heard in matters concerning plea agreements, sentencing, and parole.

The intention behind Marsy's Law is to recognize the impact of crime on victims and to make sure they have a voice in the processes that affect their lives, thus reinforcing their rights and ensuring they are treated with respect. Through this law, the justice system acknowledges that victims should not be overlooked or marginalized during criminal proceedings, thus creating a more balanced approach between the rights of victims and the rights of the accused.