What is Crime Victims Compensation?
Crime Victims Compensation is a grant program that is run by the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. More information about the program can be found here.
Who Can Get Help?
Crime Victims Compensation funds can be used to pay for an innocent victim’s medical bills, reimburse a portion of the victim’s lost wages, and reimburse an individual who pays for medical and/or funeral expenses of a homicide victim. Dependents of a homicide victim are also eligible for assistance
What Are The Limits?
Wage loss reimbursement is limited to $300 per week and funeral expenses are limited to $5,000. The total recovery cannot exceed $25,000.
CVC is considered a secondary source and will only cover expenses not paid by other sources, such as, medical insurance, sick or vacation leave paid by employer, worker’s compensation, etc
What Are The Rules And Guidelines?
In order to qualify for reimbursement from Crime Victims Compensation:
• The crime must be reported to law enforcement within 96 hours (4 days.)
• An application must be submitted to CVC within one year of the crime.
• The victim must cooperate in all steps of the investigation and prosecution of the offender.
• The victim CANNOT have been assisting in or committing a criminal act which caused the injuries.
What If There Is Recovery From The Offender?
If restitution is paid to the victim, CVC must be reimbursed for any expenses that the program covered. If there is a recovery from a civil suit, reimbursement may be required if the expenses have already been paid. CVC may deny coverage if the recovery is more than the victim’s economic loss. CVC must be informed in writing of any impending civil suit.
Exclusions
Crime Victims Compensation does not provide reimbursement for property damage or loss.
How Can I Apply for Crime Victims Compensation?
Applications can be found here .
Legal Services of North Dakota may also be able to assist you in gathering the documents needed and assist with completing a full application for crime victims compensation. Please see the information below or on our website for how to contact LSND.
Who Do I Contact With Additional Questions?
Seniors 60 and over Call:
1-866-621-9886
Others Call:
1-800-634-5263
You may apply for legal services by completing our online website application.