In Texas, innocent victims of violent crime, including victims of sexual assault and drunk drivers, may apply for money to help with medical bills, loss of income, child care, counseling, or financial costs related to the death of a family member. The program is intended to help with expenses that may not be covered by insurance or other sources.
The Texas Crime Victim Compensation Act provides certain benefits for victims of violent crime. The law applies to any resident of the United States, its possessions and territories, or District of Columbia who is the victim of violent crime in Texas.
A Texas resident who becomes a victim in another state is covered if that state does not have a compensation program for which the victim would be eligible, and the victim would have been eligible if the crime had occurred in Texas.
Services Include:
· Contact victims of crime by letter or telephone call to advise of their rights
· Educate victims on the court system and how the case will be handled
· Refer victims to outside agencies
· On-site crisis response with victims and witnesses to assist them with resources
· Educate on victim’s rights and the Crimes Victim’s Compensation Fund
· Assist with application for Crimes Victim’s Compensation
· Provide translation and interpretation
· Working with parents of children of child crimes and the Crimes Against Children’s Unit to ensure that the family receives the resources they need
· Death notification as needed with an officer
· Provide an alliance between CPS and APS
There is no time limitation as to when resources can be requested. If a crime was committed in another county, VAU can still assist them with referrals and assistance with the Crimes Victim’s Compensation application.
Interpretation/translation services are provided to the families.