Who is a “Victim?”

A “victim” is defined under the California Constitution as a “person who suffers direct or threatened physical, psychological, or financial harm as a result of the commission or attempted commission of a crime or delinquent act. The term ‘victim’ also includes the person’s spouse, parents, children, siblings, or guardian, and includes a lawful representative of a crime victim who is deceased, a minor, or physically or psychologically incapacitated. The term ‘victim’ does not include a person in custody for an offense, the accused, or a person whom the court finds would not act in the best interests of a minor victim.” ( Cal. Const., art. I, § 28(e) )

If a person is a victim of any of the following crimes, VOCMC may be the right choice for them.

• Assault
• Child Abuse
• Domestic Violence
• Drunk Driving
• Hit & Run
• Homicide
• Molestation
• Robbery
• Sexual assault
• Vehicular manslaughter
• Other Criminal Acts

State assistance is available free of charge and legal citizenship is not required to qualify. However, the person applying must cooperate fully with law enforcement during the investigation and prosecution of the crime.*

Victims have one year from the date of incident to file a claim with the State. If a victim applies after one year, they can inform the California Victims Compensation Program, (CALVCP) in writing why the application is late, and an extension may be granted. Victims under the age of 18 have until their 19^th birthday to apply.

*Based upon qualification with the State of California.