What purpose does a victim impact statement serve in court proceedings?

A victim impact statement serves a critical purpose in the courtroom by allowing victims to convey the personal impacts of a crime that goes beyond the legal aspects of the case. This statement provides an opportunity for the victim or their representatives to express their emotional, psychological, and financial suffering as a result of the crime. By doing so, it gives the court a more comprehensive understanding of the crime's effects, helping judges and juries to appreciate the broader implications of their decisions.

The inclusion of victim impact statements can be particularly influential during the sentencing phase, where the court considers various factors that may affect the punishment decided for the defendant. This information can help highlight the severity of the crime and its consequences on the victim's life, ensuring that the justice system takes into account the human element involved in criminal proceedings.