The victim's role is to provide evidence in the case against the accused. The criminal justice system recognizes wrongs as crimes against society. Even though the victim experienced the harm, the Crown prosecutor is in charge of the case. The decide if and what charges will be laid, and how to prosecute the accused, as well as make recommendations about sentencing. The Crown prosecutor will likely meet with the victim to get their evidence. They will also decide if the victim should be a witness. Sometimes the victim is the only witness to the crime. The victim can ask the Crown prosecutor to keep them informed of what happens throughout the case. It is important to remember the Crown prosecutor is not the victim's lawyer. They make all the decisions about the prosecution even if the victim does not agree or want something to happen. Last Reviewed: June 2023