Victim Impact Panels (VIP) are designed to to help break through the barriers that DUI offenders often build up and help them to see the potential consequences of their actions. It is a presentation done by 2-3 victims of this crime who have experienced a death or major injury to themselves (or a member of their family) as a result of a DUI crash. The panels are emotional and powerful experiences and function based on court ordered referrals.

The 1996 Mississippi Legislature added language to the Implied Consent Law that specifically authorized attendance at a VIP as a substitute for 48 hours of jail time (63-11-30).

The goals of a VIP include:  

• Reducing DUI recidivism
• Helping offenders to understand drunk driving from a victim's perspective.
• Imprinting true stories in the mind of the offender which might be recalled when a decision to drink and drive is considered in the future.
• Breaking through the emotional barriers that offenders build around themselves and their drinking patterns.
• Enhancing the emotional healing of victims by offering an outlet to speak of their experience and to believe that their story may prevent others from experiencing a similar tragedy.

Panels are currently held in 13 locations throughout the state:

1. Desoto County (Southaven)
2. Forrest County (Hattiesburg)
3. Golden Triangle (Columbus)
4. Harrison County (Gulfport)
5. Jackson County (Pascagoula)
6. Lafayette County (Oxford)
7. Lauderdale County (Meridian)
8. Lee County (Tupelo)
9. Madison County (Ridgeland)
10. Neshoba County (Philadelphia)
11. Pike County (Magnolia)
12. Rankin County (Brandon)
13. Sunflower County (Indianola)

Requirements of and to attend the panels are:

• First time DUI offender ordered by a judge
• A copy of the signed court order
• A valid form of identification (Social Security Card, Birth Certificate, etc.)
• A $25 money order made out to MADD
• Present no later than 6:30 p.m. at the selected location
• Preparedness to stay at the panel until 9 p.m. (all locations) 

Special Note: If you are unable to attend a panel as you have been ordered or missed a scheduled date, you must contact the issuing court clerk or probation officer to prevent possible consequences. Pertinent information regarding each panel is listed on the back of the orginal court order. MADD MS complies with this schedule as it is printed.