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ExercisiRight To Be Heard 

Your right to be heard is a very important right and one which deserves serious consideration. Defendants have a right to make any statements they deem appropriate to the Judge prior to the imposition of the sentence. This may include a plea for 

leniency, an explanation as to what led to their actions or how they have changed since the crime. The defendant’s attorney may also make persuasive remarks regarding sentencing. When you exercise your right to be heard 

at sentencing, this is an opportunity for the Judge to see the other side of the story and provides for some balance in the sentencing process. Many victims find this to be a very helpful experience. While we can’t tell you what to say, please feel free to contact the Victim-Witness Staff to ask any questions. 

Make It Meaningful 

UNITED STATES ATTORNEY’S OFFICE 

There are things that the Victim-Witness Staff can do to make this process a little easier for you. If you have never been in a courtroom before, it may be helpful for you to see the room you will be in and the surroundings, as well as who will be present at the sentencing, explained to you. This can be especially helpful for a young victim. If you need other assistance to make your appearance possible, contact the VictimWitness Staff below for assistance. 

NEED HELP? 

OTHER OPTIONS: 

Not everyone is comfortable with speaking in front of 

people, especially about something very personal and in 

front of the defendant. Travel and time restraints may 

also make it difficult for you to come and tell your story 

live in court. You still have the option of writing an 

impact letter or statement. This is another way for you 

to let the judge know what your concerns are and the 

affect of the crime on you. In most circumstances, this 

statement will be provided to counsel for the defendant 

and can become part of the permanent record. While we 

cannot write your statement for you, our office will 

assist you and help answer questions. 

Gretchen Busbee 

Victim-Witness Specialist (Panama City/Pensacola) 

(850) 444-4000 

Kelli Dougherty 

Victim-Witness Specialist (Gainesville/Tallahassee) 

(850) 942-8430 
The impact of a crime is different for 

every victim and for every crime. How it affects you and those around you is also unique. Your concerns about how the case proceeds and about the custodial status of the defendant are also going to vary depending on the circumstances surrounding your victimization. Under federal law, you have the right to be reasonably heard at any public 

proceedings involving release, plea or sentencing. Your purpose for addressing the Court at these different proceedings may vary, but there are certain tips that generally apply. We most commonly see victims exercising their right to be heard during sentencing, but should you choose to participate in 

this manner at a release or plea hearing, you may want to contact the VictimWitness Staff and find out more information on how those hearings proceed. Whenever you are addressing the Court, it is important for you to remember that this is a statement to the Court. The enclosed tips are here to help you formulate your thoughts prior to addressing the Court. 

Addressing the Court 

Tips for Addressing the Court

• Let someone in the prosecuting office 

know of your desire to speak. They can make this process much easier for you and can make sure that the Court knows of your desire to speak. 

• Prepare what you want to say in advance. Take some time to think about what 

you want to say. You can write your statement out ahead of time and read it or make notes on points you want to cover. Do what makes you most comfortable. 

• Make your comments to the point and 

speak clearly into the microphone. 

• Speak in your own 

words. Your statement should accurately reflect the impact of the crime on you. 

• You are addressing the 

Judge, not the defendant. You should keep your eyes towards the bench and your comments should not be directed toward the defendant. 

• A brief statement about your financial 

losses may be beneficial to the Court. 

• Inform the Court of any concerns you 

may have about your safety or retaliation. 

• Your behavior should be appropriate to 

the seriousness of the proceedings. 

• Feel free to bring a friend or family member for support. 

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The Impact Of The Crime