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THE RIGHT TO FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
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1. Victim-Witness Programs can assist you in the return of property held as evidence.

2. Victim-Witness Programs can also provide you information about receiving financial assistance, such as social services and the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund:

Victims of crime who suffer from physical injuries as a result of the crime may be eligible for state compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund to cover medical expenses, psychological counseling, partial loss of earnings, or funeral expenses that are incurred as a result of their victimization. A guardian or parent may file for an individual under the age of eighteen. Qualifications for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund are:

  • The crime occurred in Virginia and resulted in physical injury or death.
  • The crime was reported to law enforcement within 120 hours after it happened unless good cause is shown for delay.
  • The victim was not involved in illegal activity at the time of the crime and cooperated with law enforcement and is/was willing to prosecute in court.
  • The value of the claim, not paid by other sources, must be at least $100.00.

  • The crime did not involve a motor vehicle, unless it was the result of a violation of the Drunk Driving Statue or the injuries were intentionally  inflicted.

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    If you meet these criteria and would like information on how to file a claim, you can contact your local Victim-Witness Assistance Program, or contact Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund directly at,

                                                       Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund 

                                                              11513 Allecingie Parkway

                                                              Richmond, Virginia 23235

                                                                    1 (800) 552-4007

    Important!: Doctors, hospitals, or therapists cannot file a claim. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund is a separate agency from the Victim-Witness Assistance program. The Victim-Witness Assistance Program cannot guarantee that any claim will be accepted. If a claim has been filed, changes of addresses should be forwarded the Criminal Injuries Compensation Fund immediately.

    3. If you incurred out-of-pocket expenses as a result of a crime, you may be eligible to receive restitution from the defendant to cover any out-of-pocket expenses that were incurred as a result of the crime. Contact a Victim-Witness Assistance Program for more information concerning restitution eligibility and to receive a Request for Restitution Form.  To download a Request for Restitution Form, go to FORMS.

    Important!: An order of restitution does not guarantee payments. Also, requests for restitution ideally should be accompanied by estimates or receipts; this is essential in cases involving requests for large amounts of restitution.

    4. Victim-Witness Assistance Programs may also be able to provide referrals to community agencies or organizations that provide emergency assistance in some situations.

    5. If you have been subpoenaed by the Commonwealth's Attorney's office, and have to travel to court from out of state, your local Victim-Witness Program may be able to make travel arrangements for you and/or reimburse you for your travel expenses. See Courtroom Assistance for more information.