What Types of Compensation Can I Claim if I Am a Victim of a Crime in Wisconsin?

 Posted on May 07,2021 in Victimology

For almost every crime, there is going to be a victim. Some crimes are more violent than others, but nearly all crime is going to have an effect on someone, somewhere. When it comes to crimes that are committed directly to or in the presence of a person, the risk of sustaining certain types of damages is increased significantly. Many people may not be aware that there are programs available to help with the unexpected costs that victims may incur after a crime is committed. In Wisconsin, there are many situations in which you may be eligible to receive various types of compensation through the state’s Crime Victim Compensation program.

Eligibility Requirements

Victims of certain crimes, family members of deceased victims, those who were injured helping a crime victim or police officer, and those who have been in an accident with an intoxicated driver are all able to file claims with the Crime Victim Compensation program, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements. To be eligible for compensation, the following must be true:

• The victim's actions did not cause or contribute to their death or injury.

• The victim did not commit the crime which led to injury or death.

• A report was made with the police within five days of the crime taking place.

• The victim agrees to cooperate with law enforcement as they work on the case.

• The application for benefits was filed within one year of the crime.

• The victim agrees to cooperate with the Wisconsin Department of Justice.

Types of Compensation You May Receive

There are various types of compensation that the Crime Victim Compensation program provides. Up to $40,000 can be compensated, in addition to up to four years of out-of-pocket expenses sustained from the crime. Types of compensation that the program may pay for include:

• Expenses for medical care, hospital bills, surgeries, pharmaceuticals, and mental health

• Lost wages if you become disabled

• Loss of support, if the applicant is the dependent of a victim who is killed

• Up to $300 for the cost to replace any clothing or bedding that is being held as evidence

• Up to $200 for the replacement of a computer or cell phone that is being held as evidence

• Up to $200 for the replacement of any property that is being held as evidence and has been rendered unusable because of crime lab testing

• Up to $1,000 to help secure and clean a crime scene

• Fees for caregiver services

• Up to $5,000 for funeral and burial expenses

• Up to $3,000 per parent to help pay for mental health treatment and time off of work if their child was the victim

• Up to $5,000 to help make necessary changes to the victim’s home if they suffered a disability from the crime

Contact Our Waukesha County Victimology Lawyer Today

Being a victim of any crime can be a scary experience, but being a victim of a violent crime can often leave lasting physical and psychological scars. If you have been a victim of a crime in Wisconsin, you should discuss your case with our Waukesha, WI victimology attorney. At Bucher Law Group, LLC, we can help you secure compensation for any injuries you may be experiencing, including through the Crime Victim Compensation program and a personal injury claim against the at-fault party. To schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 262-303-4916.

Source:

https://www.doj.state.wi.us/ocvs/compensation/crime-victim-compensation-program-compensation-your-financial-losses