§ 9424. Additional rights and services.
§ 9424. Additional rights and services. (a) A victim or witness with a cognitive disability is entitled to an explanation, in language the victim or witness understands, of all legal proceedings in which the victim or witness is to be involved. (b) A victim or witness with a cognitive disability is entitled to be accompanied, […]
§ 9421. Legislative intent.
§ 9421. Legislative intent. The General Assembly finds that it is necessary to provide every victim and witness with a cognitive disability, particularly those whose disability renders them the emotional or mental equivalent of a child, with additional consideration and different treatment than that usually required for adult victims and witnesses who are not cognitively […]
§ 9422. Definitions.
§ 9422. Definitions. The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this subchapter, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: (1) “Cognitive disability” means a developmental disability that substantially impairs an individual’s cognitive abilities including, but not limited to, delirium, dementia and […]
§ 9423. Expedited proceedings.
§ 9423. Expedited proceedings. In all criminal proceedings involving a victim or witness with a cognitive disability, the court and the prosecution shall take appropriate action to ensure a prompt trial in order to minimize the length of time the victim or witness must endure the stress of the victim’s or witness’s involvement in the […]