Presenting a statement at a parole hearing

A victim also has the right to present a statement to Parole Board of Canada (PBC) Board members at the offender's parole hearing that outlines the continuing impact the offence has had on them, as well as any risk or safety concerns they feel the offender may pose.

Victims who do not wish, or who are not able, to attend a parole hearing in person can also submit a written statement, or a video or audio recording of their statement, to be presented to Board members during the parole hearing.

Regardless of the format chosen, a written copy of the statement must be submitted to the PBC prior to the hearing.

To present a statement, victims should complete and submit a Request to Present a Victim Statement form.

If a victim has changed their name since the crime and they do not want their new name used during the hearing they should advise the PBC.

Guidelines on what to include in a victim statement

For guidelines on what a victim statement should include, victims should consult the Victims - Presenting a Statement and Victims - A Statement Checklist fact sheets.