... may have far reaching consequences for our citizens, economy, social services and our judicial system" (1997:82). In The United States of America, Victim Impact Statements were introduced in the 1970's and at present, 49 American states have legislation allowing input by victims at sentencing (Howard, 1997). It is important to discuss Victim Impact Statements according to a 1st world country as a third world country such as South Africa could greatly benefit from what works in more developed Judicial Systems. Although it should be noted that each country is different and what works for one country may not be as effective in such a multi-cultural society as ours. Anyone who has been a victim of crime experiences the effects of the crime in a number of ways. The effects can be physical, as in the case of domestic violence, rape assault, or mugging, they can also be psychological, inducing such disorders as ...

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