Providing an Equal Voice for Crime Victims in Illinois

Since 2015, Marsy's Law has been part of the Illinois Constitution — ensuring that victims and their families are informed, protected, and given a voice at every stage of the criminal justice process. No Illinoisan should ever face the justice system alone.

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Stay up-to-date on the latest news about Marsy's Law and victims' rights in Illinois.

What is Marsy’s Law?

Marsy’s Law ensures that victims of crime have equal, constitutional rights on the same level as those accused and convicted of crimes.
When we were not allowed to make a victim impact statement at the sentencing hearing for my sister’s killer because the sentence was mandatory, we were only beginning to understand how much it would mean to us not to have our statement in the court record; for the Judge and offender not to hear how the crime had affected us... Now with Marsy’s Law for Illinois, that kind of thing will never happen to victims and families again.
Jennifer Bishop Jenkins
State Director for Marsy's Law for Illinois
Today, crime victims are one step closer to having the common sense legal rights they deserve. Victims should feel safe in their own community and be informed about cases involving their attackers.
Representative Lou Lang
Innocent victims of crime deserve every possible protection. This amendment would ensure those who have endured the tragedy of violent crime have their voice heard in court and can effectively enforce their rights.
Attorney General Lisa Madigan
Victims’ rights are no longer illusory in Illinois. The Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault commends the Illinois legislature for its courageous action on behalf of victims’ rights.
Polly Poskin
Executive Director of the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault (ICASA)

Latest News
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1 min read
Marsy’s Law for Illinois Names Victims’ Rights Champions

Apr 11, 2019 

Springfield, Illinois (April 11, 2019) — Marsy’s Law for Illinois, in honor of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (April 7-13) has named seven individuals as Victims’ Rights Champions. Each honoree...
3 min read
Madigan: Begin Statewide Implementation of Crime Victims' Rights Constitutional Amendment

Aug 24, 2015 

Springfield — Attorney General Lisa Madigan highlighted a new state law that will protect the rights of survivors of crime, and ensure they can be heard in court. House Bill 1121, sponsored by Rep....
3 min read
Crime victims' rights advocates thank Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner for signing House bill 1121

Aug 21, 2015 

SPRINGFIELD - Crime victims' rights advocates applaud Gov. Bruce Rauner today as he signed HB 1121; the law became effective immediately upon his signature. This is the implementation bill for the...