Help for Ohio Victims of Violent Crime

The tragedy that beset our community on will certainly be the impetus of further and hopefully learned discussions on many important topics.

However, at this time I believe topics of parental responsibility, school safety, juvenile justice, gun control and the like should take a backseat to a united concern for helping the families and all those affected by this loss.

How can we help? I know that we are a very giving community and donations of time, effort and money to help the Chardon Families is already underway.

However, I want to take this opportunity to discuss a program offered by the State of Ohio that can offer substantial financial assistance to eligible persons and their families who are victims of a violent crime. 

THE OHIO VICTIMS OF CRIME COMPENSATION PROGRAM

Here are some of the highlights:

Who is eligible?

• Persons injured during a violent crime, dependents (children) of persons killed during the commission of a crime and anyone responsible for a crime victim’s finances (parents and guardians)

• However, you can be excluded from receiving these benefits if your conduct caused or contributed to the injuries sustained or if you have been previously convicted of certain crimes with the last ten years.

What crimes are eligible?

• Violent crimes including but not limited to: assaults, homicide, domestic violence, and even certain motor vehicle related loss such as driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs, hit and run, and vehicular assault.

What compensation is available?

• Victims including their families may be eligible to receive up to $50,000.00 for uncompensated losses sustained including but not limited to: funeral / burial expenses, medical bills, lost wages, professional counseling expenses and even  travel expenses for family members of a deceased victim to attend court proceedings.

What is not covered?

• This programs excludes certain categories of damages such as “pain and suffering” and property damage losses like when you car is stolen or vandalized.

Are there any other benefits?

• I glad you asked. The State of Ohio will pay the attorney of your choice to assist you in the preparation of the required paperwork and presentation of your claim for benefits. That’s right; you can hire an attorney to assist you in this matter free of charge (subject to certain billing requirements and limitations).

Closing Argument:  The trauma that results from being the victim of a violent crime does not have not to include economic hardship.  The Ohio Victim of Crime Compensation Program can offer substantial financial assistance to eligible persons and their families.

What say you? 

Legal blogs are a form of informational advertising and should not be taken as legal advice.  Please contact me at bill.joherl@roadrunner.com if you have any questions about this topic and/or another legal matter.

William R. Joherl, Esq.

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