NC S595

Amends North Carolina Constitution Article I, Section 37 to strengthen victims' rights in criminal and juvenile proceedings by removing language limiting rights "as prescribed by law" and establishing them as absolute basic rights.

Adds three new victim rights: reasonable protection from the accused, proceedings free from unreasonable delay with prompt case conclusion, and treatment with fairness and respect for dignity and privacy.

Expands victim notification and participation rights to include any proceeding involving release, plea, or parole where a victim right is implicated, and establishes that victims may assert and seek enforcement of rights in any trial, appellate court, or other authority with jurisdiction.

Defines "victim" to include any person directly and proximately harmed by felonies, sexual offenses, domestic criminal trespass, stalking, protective order violations, or offenses involving assault or threats.

Requires the constitutional amendment to be submitted to voters at the November 2018 general election, with effectiveness date of January 1, 2019 if approved.