Criminal Justice (Victims' Rights)

This bill, "Emma's Law," allows victims of misdemeanor crimes to speak at the defendant's sentencing hearing. It requires courts to notify defendants at least seven days in advance if a victim plans to speak, and gives defendants the option to request a delay if they don't receive timely notice. The law applies specifically to misdemeanor cases and clarifies that family members or legal representatives may speak on behalf of victims who are unable to attend. The bill takes effect immediately but expires two years after enactment.

Requires the prosecution to disclose to defense counsel certain information relating to jailhouse informants; requires prosecutors to notify victims of the informant's crimes if the prosecutor has offered the informant a benefit in exchange for testimony or other cooperation.