Victims in the criminal justice system

Who are the victims of crime? Why do some, and not others, become involved with the criminal justice system?

What happens when they do? Is there anything that can be done to improve victims experiences of criminal justice, and to compensate them for the harm theyve suffered?

This clear and engaging new text brings together traditional and cutting-edge discussions about the nature of criminal victimization, and victims experiences of the criminal justice system.

Drawing upon empirical research findings, government policy, and the theoretical literature, the authors offer a comprehensive examination of the interconnected aspects of victims and the criminal justice system.

Close attention has been paid to the policy and practice context in the UK, but also in other jurisdictions across the world.Chapters are devoted to topics such as the changing role of the victim in criminal justice, the impact of restorative justice, compensating and repaying victims, the voluntary sector, the international context, and the future of victims in the criminal justice system.

The book has been carefully planned to provide an easy-to-follow, but intellectually robust, introduction to the debates. Each chapter has distinct sections relating to theory, research and policy, thinking critically and reflections on future research.Throughout the text, the authors use summary points to emphasize key issues, while in each chapter an annotated list of reading suggestions encourages students to explore the key literature further.

Written by a distinguished team of academics, the discussions are accessible yet thought provoking, incisive and original.

The book will appeal strongly to all students of criminology, particularly those studying victims and victimology, the criminal justice system, community safety, youth justice, as well as anyone involved with social work, the courts, prison and probation.