State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - Nevada

Created in 1981, the program operates through offices in Las Vegas and Reno. Coordinator: Bryan Nix Compensation Officers: Barbara Durbin, Patricia Moore, Roy Leo (Las Vegas); George Crown (Reno) FUNDING The program receives $20 DUI license- reinstatements; a $20 administrative fee imposed at the writing of each bail bond, plus 100% of bail forfeitures; court assessments of any amount more than $11.00; and 5% of prison-industry wages earned in excess of minimum wage. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 5 days, or within 5 days of when crime can reasonably be reported Filing period: 1 year Exceptions: Good cause exception to extend filing period up to 18 months more; child victim has until age of 21 to file claim, if crime is reported Financial hardship: Income less expenses determine whether hardship exists Out-of-state residents are now eligible for crimes committed in Nevada. PROCEDURES Once application is received, the program routinely requests victim to come in for an interview (if local) or arranges for a telephone interview as part of claims analysis. The compensation officer in each regional office makes decision based on interview and document analysis. Appeals: The applicant has 15 days to appeal to a hearing officer, who holds a hearing and renders decision. A further right exists to appeal to an appeals officer, who holds hearing and makes a new decision. A final appeal may be made to the Board of Examiners, which consists of the governor, attorney general, and secretary of state. BENEFITS Maximum award: $50,000 Each quarter, the Board of Examiners determines anticipated awards and anticipated income to determine what percentage of expenses requested can be paid. If awards are projected to exceed income, board will pay a percentage of expenses (this has ranged from 55% to 100% in recent quarters). Compensable Costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling: $3,500; additional $5,000 available in extreme situations Lost wages/support: $300 per week Funerals: $2,500 Crime-scene cleanup: $500 to establish secure residence (locks, doors and windows) Travel: to obtain medical assistance, if over 30 miles Attorney fees: no more than 10% of award, paid from victim's award, and only if charged to victim in pursuing application

Comment #1