August 10, 2015

Responding to a Changing World

Privacy is critical to many victims. Since NCVLI’s founding, we have received calls on a near weekly basis seeking help protecting privacy. In recent years, these requests have morphed to include protecting privacy in the face of technology - including cell phones. Click here  to read more.

Privacy is critical to many victims. Since NCVLI’s founding, we have received calls on a near weekly basis seeking help protecting privacy. The requests have ranged from protecting a victim’s diary or medical/counseling records to keeping the victim’s name out of public documents. In recent years, these requests have morphed to include protecting privacy in the face of technology. For example - cell phones! 

It is commonplace today to use cell phones to facilitate nearly every aspect of life; from browsing social media sites to taking, storing, and sharing pictures, to using search engines, to texting friends and family, to reading, creating, or editing documents or emails, to shopping or managing finances. The result is that tremendous amounts of information are stored on our phones. With such a wide array of information on modern smart phones, it is no wonder that victims are anxious as prosecutors and defendants alike request access. 

So how can victims participate meaningfully in criminal justice, including sharing evidence with law enforcement, while still protecting their privacy? Check out a recent legal memorandum NCVLI drafted, which discusses court rulings and tips for safeguarding victim privacy. Click here to read the memorandum.