Know Your Rights

A hate or bias crime is a crime motivated by bias or prejudice against a group of people that the law has said are a “protected group”.

Hate and bias crimes impact victims and other community members who are perceived to be or who identify as members of the targeted group.

Practical tips about how to make sure your rights are protected and how to help other survivors of hate crimes.

People who meet the legal definition of "crime victim" under their jurisdiction's laws are entitled to rights known as "crime victims' rights."

Victims have options when it comes to asserting and seeking enforcement of their rights. Some victims’ rights apply throughout the entirety of the criminal process, including during investigation, while others apply only at certain specific stages of criminal justice.

Our legal system is complex. Even from the earliest moments, a victims' rights attorney can explain the different legal options available, help victims navigate the criminal justice system (including law enforcement), and help victims ensure that their voice and rights are protected.

Whether a person is a legal “victim” entitled to crime victims' rights depends on the definitions of “victim” found in applicable laws, including in constitutions, statutes and rules. These definitions vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction.

These resources help survivors understand the legal systems and how to understand laws.

This video provides guidance for victims of hate and bias crimes in Oregon who want to learn more about financial compensation through the Oregon Crime Victims' Compensation Program.

One way to exercise the right to be heard at sentencing is by giving something called a “victim impact statement". Victim impact statements provide one way victims of crime can share how the criminal conduct has impacted their lives.