Marsy’s Law, passed in California as Proposition 9 in 2008, expanded constitutional rights for crime victims and their families. The law was inspired by the 1983 murder of 21-year-old UCSB student Marsalee “Marsy” Nicholas by her ex-boyfriend.
Just one week after her funeral, Marsy’s mother and brother unexpectedly encountered her killer at a grocery store, unaware he had been released on bail. That traumatic experience exposed major gaps in victim notification rights.
Marsy’s brother later advocated for stronger protections, leading to the passage of Marsy’s Law. The amendment guarantees victims the right to be informed about bail releases and parole proceedings, and requires courts to consider victim safety when setting bail.
At Domestic Violence Legal Center®, Attorney Tracy Catherine Miller, Esq. advocates for victims under Marsy’s Law while also protecting the constitutional rights of the accused, including the protections guaranteed under the 5th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
As a Former Prosecutor turned Criminal Defense and private Victims’ Rights attorney, Miller provides strategic analysis from multiple perspectives, giving a voice to victims seeking protection and to the accused exercising their constitutional right to remain silent.
This dual practice reflects a core principle of the justice system: constitutional rights protect both victims and the accused.
Domestic Violence Legal Center®
(949) 429-8098
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