What consequences can arise from a victim impact statement?

The correct answer highlights the significant role that a victim impact statement can play in the judicial process, particularly during sentencing. Victim impact statements provide a platform for victims to articulate how a crime has affected them personally, both emotionally and physically. This testimony can deeply influence the judge's perception of the case, as it gives a human face to the crime and illustrates the real-life implications of criminal behavior.

When it comes to sentencing, the court takes into account the impact on the victim as a key factor, which can lead to harsher penalties for the offender. Judges may consider the emotional and financial toll on the victim, and victim impact statements can be pivotal in justifying a more severe sentence, ensuring that the punishment reflects the harm caused.

In contrast, while the other choices present various situations that could relate to a court case, they do not accurately capture the primary role of victim impact statements. Retrials are typically based on procedural errors or new evidence, while swaying a jury's opinion on guilt pertains more to the evidence presented during trial rather than the victim's impact directly. Additionally, stating that it serves no legal purpose in court disregards the significant emotional and legal weight that these statements hold in influencing sentencing outcomes.