Sometimes I am amazed at what I find when helping patrons. Here is one of those “gems of information.”
Innocent victims of violent crime can apply online on the Attorney General’s web site for compensation of up to $50,000 in expenses. There are strict guidelines of course.
First, the crime must be reported to law enforcement within 72 hours of the crime and you must file your application for funds with the Attorney General within two years of the date of the crime. Here is some more information you should know.
Who is eligible:
● Those injured during a violent crime
● Dependents of people killed in a crime
● Anyone responsible for a crime victim’s finances
What is covered:
● Medical expenses
● Counseling
● Lost wages due to the crime or court proceedings
● Crime scene cleanup
● Cost to replace items taken as evidence
● Funeral and burial expenses
● Financial support for dependents of deceased victim
What is not covered:
● Stolen, damaged or lost property
● Pain and suffering
● Expenses that are covered by other sources, such as insurance
● Anyone who engaged in misconduct that caused or contributed to the injuries
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Is there any victim services nearby? There are local victim services agencies that can assist you. For county Victims Services agencies nearby search here by county.
Where is the form? More information plus online form here.
Attorney fees? Attorneys who represent a victim for reparations collect their fees from the state Attorney General, not the victim! (R.C. 2743.71(B)(3) ). Here is the form the attorney uses.
What other victim services are offered by the Attorney General? More about victim services, including victim notification of the criminal case and custody status of offender, here.
Already filed with the Attorney General? After you file your claim, you can track the status of it online here.
Not happy with your results with the Ohio Attorney General?
Appeal the decision to the Court of Claims of Ohio and for more detailed information about Ohio’s victims of crime procedures visit the Court of Claims site.
For more general information about the functions of the Ohio Attorney General office and other services provided, follow the links.
