Article 20 - The standing of victims in criminal investigations and proceedings

1. Each Party shall take the necessary legislative and other measures to protect the rights and interests of victims at all stages of criminal investigations and proceedings, in particular by:

a) informing them of their rights and the services at their disposal and, unless they do not wish to receive such information, the follow-up given to their complaint, the possible charges, the general progress of the investigation or proceedings, and their role therein as well as the outcome of their cases;

b) enabling them, in a manner consistent with the procedural rules of domestic law, to be heard, to supply evidence and to choose the means of having their views, needs and concerns presented, directly or through an intermediary, and considered;

c) providing them with appropriate support services so that their rights and interests are duly presented and taken into account;

d) providing effective measures for their safety, as well as that of their families and witnesses on their behalf, from intimidation and retaliation.

2. Each Party shall ensure that victims have access, as from their first contact with the competent authorities, to information on relevant judicial and administrative proceedings.

3. Each Party shall ensure that victims have access, provided free of charge where warranted, to legal aid when it is possible for them to have the status of parties to criminal proceedings.

4. Each Party shall take the necessary legislative and other measures to ensure that victims of an offence established in accordance with this Convention committed in the territory of a Party other than the one where they reside can make a complaint before the competent authorities of their State of residence.

5. Each Party shall provide, by means of legislative or other measures, in accordance with the conditions provided for by its domestic law, the possibility for groups, foundations, associations or governmental or non-governmental organisations, to assist and/or support the victims with their consent during criminal proceedings concerning the offences established in accordance with this Convention.

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