What are "victim impact statements"?

Victim impact statements are personal accounts provided by victims of crime or their family members, detailing how the crime has affected their lives. This includes emotional, physical, and financial impacts, allowing the court to understand the personal consequences of the crime beyond the factual elements presented during the trial.

In the context of sentencing, these statements can play a significant role, as they provide the judge with insight into how the crime has altered the victim's everyday life and well-being. This information can influence the court's decision regarding sentencing and can underscore the severity of the crime for the judge.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of victim impact statements. Legal documents related to trial processes serve different purposes, while requests for sentencing leniency focus on arguments for reduced punishment rather than the impact of the crime itself. Documents summarizing evidence present factual data rather than personal experiences and emotional responses from the victim or their loved ones.