Justice process

After a crime is reported to police, they investigate it. Find out more about what happens in an investigation.

• About the investigation
• Making a statement
• Collecting evidence
• Getting information about the investigation

When police investigate a crime, they will decide on whether there is enough evidence to lay charges against an accused person.

• Laying charges
• Summary and indictable offences
• Bail and remand

After the police have investigated the crime and laid charges, a prosecutor will present the case in court against the accused person.

You can find out more about what you need to do if you are going to court as a witness. 

• Getting information about your court case
• Types of courts
• Getting ready for court
• Giving evidence
• Victim Impact Statements
• How Victim Impact Statements are used in court
• The court's decision

Depending on the court’s decision, a criminal court case can have a number of different outcomes.

Whether or not the accused person is found guilty, you can still get information and support.

• Appeals
• While the offender is in prison
• Parole
• Post sentence scheme
• Victorian Victims Register - offender information