Principle Criteria
Free Enterprise
Property Rights
Personal Responsibility
Limited Government
Individual Liberty
Digest
HB 4918 expands the rights of victims, their guardians, and close relatives in cases involving family violence, sexual offenses, stalking, or violations of protective orders. The bill modifies the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure to ensure victims are notified about case developments, including bail proceedings, court hearings, and parole considerations. It also mandates additional protections, such as separate waiting areas for victims in court, timely return of victims' property, and employer notification rights when their testimony is required. The bill strengthens victim notification procedures regarding evidence collection, forensic analysis, and protective order filings. It also grants victims greater access to information about plea bargains, case dismissals, and parole decisions. These changes aim to enhance the legal protections and procedural rights available to victims throughout the criminal justice process​.
Author
Ann Johnson