Derechos y Servicios para Niños en Procedimientos Judiciales

Explicación Simple

Esta ley ayuda a los niños que son víctimas o testigos en juicios. Les asigna a alguien que les explique todo lo que va a pasar y que los apoye emocionalmente.

Es como tener un entrenador personal en un deporte; esa persona te guía, te explica las reglas y te ayuda a enfrentar los desafíos.

Ejemplo Práctico

Imagina que Ana, una niña de 10 años, fue testigo de un robo. La corte le asigna a un abogado que la ayuda a entender lo que va a suceder en el juicio y le ofrece apoyo emocional porque está asustada.

Texto Original del Estatuto (Inglés)

42 Pa.C.S. 5983 - Rights And Services (a) Designation of persons to act on behalf of children.--Courts of common pleas may designate one or more persons as a child advocate to provide the following services on behalf of children who are involved in criminal proceedings as victims or material witnesses: (1) To explain, in language understood by the child, all legal proceedings in which the child will be involved. (2) As a friend of the court, to advise the judge, whenever appropriate, of the child's ability to understand and cooperate with any court proceedings. (3) To assist or secure assistance for the child and the child's family in coping with the emotional impact of the crime and subsequent criminal proceedings in which the child is involved. (b) Qualifications.--Persons designated under subsection (a) may be attorneys at law or other persons who, by virtue of service as rape crisis or domestic violence counselors or by virtue of membership in a community service organization or of other experience acceptable to the court, possess education, experience or training in child or sexual abuse and a basic understanding of the criminal justice system. Cross References.Section 5983 is referred to in sections 5984.1, 5985 of this title. 42 Pa.C.S. 2004 - Repeal § 5984. Videotaped depositions (Repealed). 2004 Repeal. Section 5984 was repealed July 15, 2004, P.L.736, No.87, effective immediately.