A Victim Impact Statement is a written or oral statement presented in court by a victim of a crime. It allows the victim to describe how the crime has affected their life, including emotional, physical, and financial impacts. This statement helps the judge and jury understand the consequences of the crime beyond the legal aspects. These statements are often considered during sentencing, as they provide insight into the victim's experience. They can influence the severity of the punishment given to the offender. Victims may also share their feelings about the crime and its impact on their families and communities.