Wisconsin Administrative Code Dentistry Examining Board
The Wisconsin Crime Victims Rights Board (CVRB) is an independent, quasi-judicial body established to enforce the rights of crime victims as outlined in Wisconsin statutes and the state constitution. Operating under the authority of Wis. Stat. § 950.09 and the Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter CVRB 1, the CVRB reviews complaints alleging violations of victims' rights by public officials, agencies, or employees.
Key Functions and Powers
The CVRB has several responsibilities and powers, including:
Reviewing Complaints: At the request of an involved party, the board may review complaints regarding violations of crime victims' rights. However, the board cannot begin any investigation or take action until it first determines that there is probable cause to believe that a violation has occurred. Wisconsin Legislative Documents
Issuing Reprimands: The board can issue private and public reprimands to public officials, employees, or agencies that violate victims' rights. It's important to note that, in the case of judges, the CVRB's authority to issue reprimands is limited following the decision in Gabler v. Crime Victims Rights Board, 2017 WI 67. Wisconsin Legislative Documents
Referring Cases: For alleged violations by judges, the board may refer the matter to the judicial commission. Wisconsin Legislative Documents
Seeking Equitable Relief: The board can seek appropriate equitable relief on behalf of victims if necessary to protect their rights. However, it cannot seek to appeal, reverse, or modify a judgment of conviction or a sentence in a criminal case. Wisconsin Legislative Documents
Bringing Civil Actions: The board has the authority to bring civil actions to assess a forfeiture under Wis. Stat. § 950.11. Actions brought by the board must be settled in a manner that treats comparable situations similarly and ensures that any settlement is reasonably related to the severity of the offense.
Issuing Reports and Recommendations: The board may issue reports and recommendations concerning the securing and provision of crime victims' rights and services. However, its authority to issue such reports and recommendations is limited following the decision in Gabler v. Crime Victims Rights Board, 2017 WI 67.
Complaint Filing Process
To file a complaint with the CVRB:
Obtain a Complaint Form: After the Department of Justice has completed its action on a complaint under Wis. Stat. § 950.08(3), the involved party can obtain a complaint form from the mediator.
Complete the Form: The complaint must be prepared on the provided form and signed by the person preparing the statement. The party must verify that the contents are true and correct to the best of their knowledge.
Submit the Complaint: Return the completed form to the board at the address provided on the form.
A complaint may be filed by any involved party, but the board cannot take action unless the complaint is filed by a victim or the victim has signed the complaint indicating consent.
Investigation and Hearings
Upon receiving a complaint:
Investigation: The board may conduct an investigation, which can include requesting responses to written questions, participation in interviews, and obtaining written documentation. The board may also request a party to sign a statement authorizing the limited release of specified records.
Hearings: A hearing may be requested by any party or by the board. Parties may appear in person or by telephone, or submit a written statement. The board may set reasonable time limits for testimony and may limit the number of witnesses.
Judicial Review
Decisions made by the CVRB are subject to judicial review under Wis. Stat. §§ 227.52 to 227.59.
Contact Information
For more information or to file a complaint:
Mailing Address:
CVRB Operations Director
Wisconsin Department of Justice
17 West Main Street
Madison, WI 53707
Email: crvb@doj.state.wi.us
Phone: (800) 446-6564
The CVRB plays a crucial role in ensuring that the rights of crime victims are upheld and that public officials and agencies are held accountable for any violations.
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