State to provide public defenders for victims of violent crimes

By Choi Eui-jong, The Herald Business

State-appointed defense lawyers, previously available only to victims of certain crimes such as sexual violence and child abuse, will now be extended to victims of violent crimes including murder and robbery.

The Ministry of Justice announced Wednesday that legal assistance through public defenders would be expanded to cover victims of violent crimes such as murder and robbery.

The move follows amendments to the Special Act on the Punishment of Specific Violent Crimes and a related Ministry of Justice ordinance governing the appointment of public defenders by prosecutors, both of which took effect Wednesday.

Victims of violent crimes, or their legal guardians, may request a state-appointed defense lawyer when filing a report with investigative agencies such as police stations or prosecutors' offices. Requests can also be submitted through counseling centers or victim support centers.

Public defender support had previously been limited to victims of certain offenses including sexual violence and child abuse. The Ministry of Justice said the legal amendments broaden that coverage to victims of violent crimes generally, strengthening the protection of victims' rights within criminal proceedings.

Under the expanded system, victims of violent crimes will be entitled to legal assistance from the earliest stages of an investigation, including having a lawyer present during police and prosecutors' questioning. They will also receive support for making victim impact statements and participating in trial proceedings, helping prevent secondary harm and enabling victims to exercise their legal rights.

Justice Minister Jeong Seong-ho said victims suffering from unexpected violent crimes would no longer have to face legal difficulties alone. He added that the ministry would spare no effort in building a criminal justice system centered on protecting victims' human rights through professional legal assistance.