Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Can a victim of a sexual abuse case leave the state after the case has been opened? Obviously they’d have to return for the trial, but that would be many months later. Can the victim move away and then come back for the trial, or does the victim have to be readily available from the original police report until the end of the trial?


Asked on 8/07/24, 9:49 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

Being the victim of a crime does not deprive you of your rights. But other things might. On rare occasions, a court will order a key witness -- even the complaining witness -- to stay nearby. If that has happened to you, then you must obey the order. But the order is what would prevent you from traveling, not the fact you're a crime victim.

There are a variety of other reasons why someone in your situation might have to remain in-state. I can't offer a comprehensive list. You may want to discuss the specifics of your situation with a local attorney of civil rights organization; they might be able to give you advice tailored to your needs.

Good luck.

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Answered on 8/08/24, 12:36 am


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