Included in the overview are discussions of the provisions of the Federal Victim and Witness Protection Act of 1982 and the Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 permitting restitution orders in Federal criminal cases. Federal and State victim compensation statutes are also discussed along with such policy concerns as the scope of criminal activity giving rise to compensation claims, government's responsibilities in receiving and processing claims, eligibility standards, and the creation of crime victims' funds. The need for improved assistance for victims and witnesses by the criminal justice system is outlined and the provisions of a model victims' bill of rights are discussed. Federal legislation protecting witnesses from harassment, intimidation, and bodily harm is detailed, along with the provisions of the Federal government's witness protection program. 93 footnotes.