This book is intended for use by concerned citizens, taxpayers, and potential and actual victims of crime who seek to make significant changes in public policy to respect the rights of crime victims. The books aim is to highlight the research in this area and persuade the public in seeking legislative changes that call for the police to balance the rights of victims with bringing criminals to justice; increased funding for victim support programs; ensure that restitution is ordered and paid for, and that it is fair; ensure that justice systems provide for participation and representation of victims; and invest in public safety measures that aim to prevent victimization. The book is divided into eight chapters. Chapter 1 discusses the statistics and realities of crime victims, and identifies seven core needs of victims, while chapter 2 examines how governments in North America and Europe provide for crime victims. Chapter 3 looks at how victims should be treated by law enforcement, while chapter 4 examines the care and support that victims need for recovery and their long-term well-being. Chapter 5 examines the ways that victims receive restitution and compensation from offenders and the state. Chapter 6 focuses on how victims of crime can and should defend their rights, while chapter 7 discusses ways to reduce and prevent victimization. Chapter 8 discusses the ways that governments around the world have attempted to bring outdated criminal justice systems into balance by including victims of crime. Tables, figures, appendix, notes, principal sources, and index