Working together to eliminate sexual violence in Aotearoa
Victim Impact Statement Example
Victim Impact Statements
A Victim Impact Statement is your opportunity to tell the Court — in your own words — how a crime has affected your life.
It gives you a voice in the justice process and helps decision-makers understand the personal impact beyond what’s written in police or legal reports.
When someone is found guilty or pleads guilty to a crime, victims have the right to provide a Victim Impact Statement before sentencing. This statement can describe how the offending has affected you emotionally, physically, financially, socially, and in other parts of your life.
You can write it yourself, or with the support of a trusted person such as a Victim Advisor, advocate, or counsellor. Some people choose to read their statement in court, while others prefer it to be read on their behalf — either way, it’s your choice.
Why it matters
Your story is important.
A Victim Impact Statement helps the Court, the offender, and the wider community understand the real human cost of crime. It’s not about re-telling every detail of what happened — it’s about sharing the impact it has had on you and your life.
For many survivors, writing a Victim Impact Statement can be a meaningful part of healing — a chance to be heard, to reclaim power, and to have your experience acknowledged in an official setting.
The Court will consider your statement when deciding what sentence is appropriate. While it doesn’t determine the outcome, it ensures your voice is part of the process.
Support and safety
You do not have to go through this alone.
We can help you write your statement safely and in your own words. We can explain what to include, what to avoid for privacy reasons, and how to manage the emotions that can come up while writing it.
If you are currently working with us, we can support you through each step.
Whānau and loved ones
The impact of harm often extends beyond the individual — it can deeply affect whānau, friends, and communities.
If a loved one has been harmed or has passed away as a result of an offence, whānau members also have the right to provide a Victim Impact Statement.
Whānau statements give space for families to express how the crime has affected them collectively — emotionally, spiritually, and culturally. This might include the loss of a loved one’s presence, changes in family relationships, cultural disconnection, or the ongoing effects of grief and trauma.
Each whānau member may choose to write their own statement, or a shared whānau statement can be presented to reflect the collective voice of the family. The Court recognises these statements as an important expression of the broader impact and acknowledges the strength and unity of whānau in the face of harm.
Victim Impact Statement Template
Full Name: ___________________________________________
Date: _______________________________________________
Case Reference (if known): _____________________________
1. Introduction
Please introduce yourself and your connection to the case.
Example:
My name is [Name], and I am the victim in this case involving [brief description, e.g., sexual assault/theft/violence]. I am providing this statement to share how this crime has affected my life.
2. Emotional Impact
Describe how the crime has affected your feelings, mental health, and sense of safety.
3. Physical Impact
If applicable, describe any injuries or ongoing physical effects.
4. Financial Impact
Detail any financial losses, medical expenses, or changes to your employment or income.
5. Social and Relationship Impact
Explain how your relationships, social life, or role in the community have been affected.
6. Ongoing Effects and Recovery
Describe how you’re coping now and what ongoing support or healing you may need.
7. Message to the Court (optional)
You may wish to include what you hope the court takes into consideration during sentencing.
Signed: ___________________________________
Date: ______________________________________