State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - Illinios

Created in 1973, the program's decision-making authority is in the Court of Claims, with the Office of Attorney General performing investigative work on applications. Court Administrator: Matthew J. Finnell Attorney General Crime Victims Division Chief. Martha Newton Crime Victims Compensation Bureau Supervisor: Marilyn Rivera FUNDING The program receives an annual appropriation, as well as a VOCA grant. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 72 hours Filing period: 1 year Exceptions: Filing deadline may be extended 1 year for good cause; minors and applicants with legal disabilities have one year after turning age 18 to file a claim PROCEDURES The Office of Attorney General's Crime Victims Division investigates the claim and files a report and proposed order with the Court of Claims. Based on the application and report, the court renders the decision upon a concurrence of judges on the seven-judge panel. Appeals: Victim has 30 days to file an appeal with the court. The case is assigned to a commissioner, who sets up a hearing. After the hearing, the commissioner makes a recommenda- tion to the court's judges, who then make a determination on the appeal. Appeals for addi- tional compensation for ongoing expenses or expenses incurred after the initial decision may be filed at any time. BENEFITS Maximum award: $27,000 Compensable costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling Lost wages/support: $1,000 per month Funerals: $5,000 Replacement services Travel: to medical providers Rehabilitation Attorney fees: court sets fee only if hearing is held Illinois