The California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board is a state body that oversees the Victim Compensation Program (CalVCP) which provides financial assistance to victims of violent crimes through a restitution fund. Assistance may be used to pay for therapy needed as a result of the crime. The Board’s Restitution Recovery Program works with district attorneys, probation officers and the courts to ask that restitution is ordered in applicable cases to fund Victim Compensation Program; it also collects restitution payments and reimbursements. The Board also oversees the Government Claims Program.
History of the California Victim Compensation Program
The California Victim Compensation Program was created in 1965 with the aim of helping victims of violent crime and those at risk of injury. It was the first of its kind in the country. The program provides financial compensation to offset the costs of crime related expenses. The program is funded by restitution fines and orders as well as assessments levied against people convicted of crimes and traffic offenses. Some funding comes from federal matching grants. The program receives roughly $5 million per month in restitution payments.
Child physical and sexual abuse and assault are two of the most common crimes for which the program provides compensation.
Who Qualifies for Victim Compensation?
The program provides assistance for victims of crimes such as domestic violence, child abuse, assault, sexual assault, molestation, homicide, human trafficking, robbery, drunk driving, vehicular manslaughter and other violent crimes that result in physical injury or death.
Children who suffer trauma or other emotional injuries from witnessing a violent crime may be eligible for psychotherapy or other counseling; the child need not be related to the crime victim. Anyone who needs psychological treatment as a result of the crime, or who should be treated along with the victim, such as family members, or who is dependent on the victim for support, may also be eligible for assistance.
Generally, to be eligible for compensation, the crime must be reported to the local police or other law enforcement agency, and the victim must cooperate in the investigation and prosecution of any suspects. The filing deadline is one year from the date of the crime.
What does the Victim Compensation Program Cover?
Crime victims that qualify may get financial assistance for various crime-related costs including mental health services such as psychotherapy, psychiatry and counseling, medical and dental treatment, funeral expenses, home security, crime scene cleanup and emergency relocation. The victim compensation program may even cover expenses for a crime the occurred in another state.
The program does not pay for damages for pain and suffering, personal property losses, expenses covered by insurance or any expenses not related to the crime. However, these expenses and damages might be recovered through court-ordered restitution or through a civil lawsuit.
How do I Apply for Compensation?
Each county in California has a Victim Witness Assistance Center that can help victims of crime apply for compensation. In Alameda County, the Office of the District Attorney provides victim and witness services. Ask your local agency for a Victim Advocate to help you document your eligibility for compensation and file your application. Keep records including any police reports and statements for expenses related to the crime, including medical bills.
If you seek psychotherapy or other mental health counseling services related to the crime, ask the therapist if he or she is a service provider approved and registered with the local Victim Witness Assistance Center.
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