SB 1315 Summary

• Extends victims' rights to refuse interviews, depositions, and discovery requests beyond final disposition of criminal charges, except in cases involving dismissal with prejudice or acquittal.

• Removes requirement that prosecutors forward correspondence from defendants or their attorneys to victims, allowing prosecutors to shield victims from direct contact attempts.

• Expands victim standing to file special actions in both trial and appellate courts without filing fees to enforce victims' rights guaranteed by Arizona Constitution and implementing legislation.

• Transfers responsibility for providing certain victim notices from courts to probation departments in juvenile and criminal proceedings, including notices regarding probation modifications, release conditions, and diversion program status.

• Grants victims right to present evidence and arguments at restitution proceedings and clarifies that victims' counsel must be included in all bench conferences and in-chambers meetings involving victims' rights.