Legal experts agree that notifying victims and allowing limited participation does not significantly delay court proceedings. Victims who opt in may briefly speak at hearings, such as those determining release conditions—but they have long served as essential witnesses and often testify at trial.
The case remains between the State and the defendant. Marsy’s Law does not change the District Attorney’s authority or decision-making power. Victims are not parties to the case, but they are recognized as more than bystanders. They cannot override the DA’s decisions, but their rights are guaranteed under the law.
