CanadaCan I submit a victim impact statement to explain how the injury affected my life?
Yes, you can submit a victim impact statement in Canada to describe how the injury affected your physical or emotional well-being.
What the Law Says
The Criminal Code of Canada gives victims the right to share how a crime has affected them through a formal victim impact statement.
Under section 672.5 of the Criminal Code, a court is required to consider a victim impact statement if one is submitted. This statement allows you to describe — in your own words — the physical or emotional harm you suffered as a result of the offence.
The statement is not evidence about whether the accused is guilty, but it helps the judge understand the real-life consequences of the crime when deciding on sentencing or other orders.
Statutory TextA court shall consider a statement made by a victim describing the physical or emotional harm suffered.
— Criminal Code, s. 672.5 — Victim impact statements
What to Do
Write your statement in your own words — focus on how the injury affected your daily life, health, relationships, work, or emotions.
Submit it to the court before sentencing (check with the Crown prosecutor or court clerk for deadlines and formatting rules).
You may read it aloud in court, unless you prefer it be submitted in writing only.
If needed, ask for support from a victim services worker — they can help you prepare and understand your rights.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.