A crime victim’s movement had its grass root beginnings with the concerted efforts of several organizations in 1972 as violent crime was on the increase and national empathy fell on the side of innocent victims who seemed to have no legal recourse at that time. Throughout the 1970s and1980s the federal and state governments began to pass laws that enhanced victims’ rights, By 1985 federal funds were being made available to victims of violent crimes. By the end of that decade three fourths of states had ratified constitutional amendments giving rights and funding to victims of violent crimes. Texas was one of the states and since then the Crime Victims Compensation Program has been made available to thousands who have suffered needlessly at the hands of others.
The CVCP is available to assist victims of violent crimes with expenses incurred as a result of the commission of a crime. Funds can be used to pay for medical, hospital, physical therapy or nursing costs, psychiatric care or counseling, lost wages or earnings, care of a child or dependent, crime scene clean-up, funeral or burial expenses, replacement cost of items lost in the crime or resultant investigation, expenses related to the investigation and prosecution of the crime, and relocation expenses for domestic violence victims.
Greg Baumgartner is a Houston personal injury attorney and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm which is dedicated to helping injury victims seek civil justice. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured through the neglect of another call the Baumgartner Firm to speak with a personal injury attorney in Houston.
In the case of catastrophic industries victims may be eligible for a $75,000 one-time payment. It is important to note that an innocent bystander who intervenes on behalf of the victim is eligible for all the same benefits – as well as police and firefighters.
