Japan to Discuss Victims’ Involvement in Criminal Proceedings

Tokyo, June 9 (Jiji Press)–Japanese Justice Minister Hiroshi Hiraguchi said Tuesday that he will ask an advisory panel on Monday to consider ways to get crime victims and bereaved families more involved in criminal proceedings. The Legislative Council will discuss whether to allow such people to attend pretrial procedures aimed at helping narrow down issues and whether to expand the scope of crimes subject to the victim participation system, which allows victims to directly express their opinions in court. Hiraguchi said at a press conference that he hopes that the council “will hold fulfilling discussions and come up with a proposal as soon as possible.” There is no legal provision that allows victims to participate in or observe pretrial procedures involving courts, prosecutors and defense lawyers. If victims wish to participate, prosecutors ask the court to give approval after considering their reasons and possible harmful effects, but very few cases are approved. Crimes covered by the victim participation system are currently limited to murder, nonconsensual sexual intercourse, negligent driving resulting in death or injury, and some others. There are calls for including antistalking law violations. The council will also discuss whether to allow the use of a video link to connect the courtroom and separate rooms and the use of shields in the spectators’ seats to protect the privacy of crime victims. The government in March pledged to consider expanding opportunities for crime victims’ participation in criminal procedures. END [Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]