Victim’s Rights
The law states that victim’s rights apply to victims, survivors of victims, and witnesses of crimes. These individuals enjoy many protections, which apply to any and all criminal court or juvenile court proceedings.
If you are a victim, survivor, or witness, you have rights. Unfortunately, these rights are not always observed and sometimes need to be enforced.
In Washington State, all victims of crime have certain rights:
In addition, victims of sexual assault have rights under the Victims of Sexual Assault Act – RCW 70.125, including the right to have an advocate or other support person present during legal and medical proceedings, see Right to Support Person – RCW 70.125.060.
As a victim of crime, you may be eligible for benefits under the state’s Crime Victim Compensation program under RCW 7.68, WAC 296-30 & WAC 296-31. These benefits can help to cover costs associated with medical care or counseling related to the assault.
In accordance with the federal Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2005, Washington State law requires that victims be provided sexual assault forensic exams free of charge, regardless of whether they plan to report the crime to the police or otherwise cooperate with the criminal justice system. State law mandates that the initial exam be paid for by the Crime Victim Compensation Program and that victims and/or their insurers should not be billed for any costs of this exam. You do not have to apply to the program in order to receive the exam at no cost.
The Kuhlman Law Office strongly believes in the rule of law and will represent you in exercising your rights. If you have any questions about your rights please contact us.
Jacey Nash2023-04-03Mr. Kuhlman has gone above and beyond my expectations and I would highly recommend his services.Richard Kinberg2022-12-15Joe is a pure professional. He was supportive through the whole process. He was forthright in his communication with everything that was going on. Not once were we caught off guard by the procedural nuances of the legal system. He let us know what to expect at every turn which helped ease a lot of stress. When it came to trial, he clearly and methodically laid out the case for the jury. He was able to think quickly on his feet and react appropriately. When able to, he relentlessly poked holes in the prosecutions case while building/bolstering his own.Palvi Soni2022-12-12Joe is extremely good at his job. He works so hard for his clients and their freedom. We couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer during that difficult time. Bottom line.. Hire Joe! You wont regret it. He’s the best in the game!Nick Brewer2022-12-01Couldn't have asked for a better lawyer. This man can definitely help you out.TJ Soni2022-11-30Joe Kuhlman is a GODSEND. He will work tirelessly for you. Joe represented me when I was going through the toughest case of my life. He assesses the case and gives you his honest opinion along with the risks involved on taking it to trial. When he is in trial, the jury is mesmerized with what he has to say and will pay attention to the gaps in facts and show the jury that it’s another human being that is being accused by the State. He cares about his clients and will go to bat for you. I was in awe in how he conducts trial and forever grateful for him and his whole team. He saved my life. God bless Joe! If I could give him 10 stars, I would! Thank you Kuhlman and team!j2022-09-20Mr. Kuhlman represented me for my DUI case and was absolutely amazing! His genuine concern and dedication to achieve a positive outcome was more than anyone could ask for in an attorney. I highly recommend you seek out his services. I have already referred him to a friend of mine and he had the same quality experience that I did with Mr. Kuhlman. If you are looking for a go-getter attorney with tons of experience with great communication, look no further; you will not be disappointed.K. H.2022-08-05Joe is amazing at what he does. I’d trust this man with my life. I would highly recommend him- he takes care of you to the utmost degree. His trial experience is worth writing home about! Love this man!
