As readers of our blog know, we advocate strongly for victims injured during violent crimes. Our experience in this area of the law ensures that we understand what crime victims are going through.
For example, we know that victims must deal with their physical injuries while coping with the psychological trauma caused by the incident. We also know that many financial hardships (medical bills, lost income, etc.) accompany severe injuries.
Financial relief and closure are not out of reach
Crime victim litigation or filing a civil claim against the person responsible for your injuries can help you overcome your circumstances, but is that your only option? No, in Washington state, you have another choice to explore: the crime victims compensation program.
If eligible, the program will pay for the following:
- Medical and dental treatment
- Grief counseling
- Prescription medicines
- Mental health treatment
- Funeral expenses
- Wage loss replacement (partial)
- Funeral expenses
- Insurance deductibles and co-pays
Successful crime victim litigation can also help you pay for the items listed below, so which is the best route for victims to pursue? Fortunately, you might not have to choose between the two options. You can pursue both as a remedy for your harm and suffering. If you qualify for the compensation program and then win your lawsuit, you may have to reimburse the program for a portion of benefits paid to you.
Crime victim litigation offers one critical benefit that the compensation program cannot match: It empowers victims to hold the parties responsible for their harm to account in a formal setting. For most, this is the top reason for filing a civil claim after suffering injuries during the commission of a crime.
Please, take some time to learn more about crime victim litigation and state programs for victims. By increasing your knowledge about the options at your disposal, you have the best chance of getting the compensation you need.
