1. What are the standard procedures of the International Criminal Court (ICC)?
How does the Court involve victims in proceedings?
ICC judges decide whether an individual is a victim of a crime under the jurisdiction of the Court, whether the individual may participate in any stage of the proceedings, and, in the event of a conviction, whether the individual is entitled to reparations.
Victims are kept informed of developments at each stage of proceedings, including hearing dates,
Court decisions, and any appeals.
Who is a “victim” in the context of the ICC? How can they participate in Court proceedings?
Do victims have their own lawyers?
Yes, victims are entitled to be represented by a lawyer before the ICC.
Atty. Joel Butuyan and Atty. Gilbert Andres of CenterLaw are accredited to represent victims before the ICC and are currently representing victims in the Philippines investigation.
If victims need assistance from lawyers at CenterLaw, please visit us at our Makati office, contact us at [email protected] or call us at (02) 8527 6317.
CenterLaw’s representation services are provided free of charge.
What is the difference between participating as a victim and testifying as a witness?
When a victim acts as a participant , they voluntarily communicate their views and concerns through a legal representative, and do not need to appear in person.When a victim testifies as a witness , they give evidence at a specific time during trial in person. An individual may be both a participant and a witness.
How can I apply to participate as a victim in ICC proceedings?
The Victims Participation and Reparations Section (VPRS) provides an electronic application form. Contact the VPRS for assistance at [email protected].
Who has access to my information? How will my identity be protected?
While some of the information provided may be made available to the public during Court proceedings, the Court generally does not make victims’ identities available to the public.
Later on in proceedings, ICC judges decide whether the information contained in the application form
will be shared with the Prosecutor and the Defence.
If a victim has safety concerns regarding any information shared on the application, these concerns should be raised in the form.
For general security purposes, please keep the fact that you are participating with the ICCconfidential.