Witnessing or experiencing a crime can be overwhelming. Additionally, you can sustain physical or emotional injuries during the incident. If you have been the victim of a crime in Pennsylvania, remember that you do not need to fight alone.
While every situation is different, there are practical steps you can take to protect your health, safety and rights. This includes your right to apply for Crime Victims Compensation.
Your initial steps
Your priority must be your safety and health. Even if your injuries seem minor, you may be in a state of shock. You should seek medical assistance as soon as you can because your health may be at risk. Not only is this crucial for your recovery, but medical records are essential for seeking compensation or pursuing legal action.
Additionally, reporting the crime to law enforcement is a vital prerequisite for accessing many victim resources in Pennsylvania.
Crime victim compensation
Many crime victims don’t realize they may be eligible for financial assistance through Pennsylvania’s Crime Victim Compensation Program. This is a state-funded program that exists specifically to help innocent victims of violent crimes recover from their losses.
The Crime Victim Compensation Program can help cover expenses that result from your victimization, including:
- Wage replacement
- Counseling, therapy or mental health services
- Medical and dental costs
- Funeral expenses, if the crime is a homicide
You can file a claim online through the PCCD’s DAVE (Dependable Access for Victimization Expenses) system. Alternatively, you can work with a victim advocate to help you with the paperwork.
Eligibility and application
To qualify for compensation in Pennsylvania, you must complete the following requirements:
- Report the crime to police within 72 hours (unless with valid reason for delay)
- Cooperate with law enforcement in providing details
- File your claim within five years of the discovery of the crime.
You must not have engaged in criminal activity at the time of the incident. In addition, you do not need to wait for law enforcement to arrest or convict anyone to apply. Victim service agencies, law enforcement and prosecutors’ offices can help you complete a free application.
Recovering from crime
Beyond financial compensation, Pennsylvania offers other victim services including crisis intervention and support groups. Furthermore, our local victim services agency can connect you with these resources.
Do you need sound legal guidance to navigate your complex situation? If so, you may want to consider seeking legal counsel from a professional. Do not hesitate to reach out and claim the assistance you need.