State Agency Crime Victim Compensation Program - New Hampshire

The Victims' Assistance Commission is nominated by the attorney general for approval by the governor and executive council. The commission consists of from three to five members; rules adopted by the commission stipulate that it shall include a victim, a lawyer, and a physician. Members serve staggered three-year terms. The program was created in 1990. Coordinator: Kim Therrien Commission members: Dr. Kathryn Little, Jo Davidson, Ken Williams, Frank Greaney, Ann Rice FUNDING The program receives a portion of a 20% add-on to all criminal fines, including motor vehicle violations. Of the 20% add-on, 5% is set aside for victims compensation and assistance, and of that amount, the program receives 60% for direct compensation and 15% for administration (the remaining 2.5% funds county victim/witness advocates). The program receives a VOCA grant. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Reporting period: 5 days Filing period: 1 year Exceptions: Good cause waiver applied in some cases (e.g., sex assault) Minimum loss: $100 PROCEDURES Coordinator makes recommendations to the commission for final decisions at monthly meetings. The applicant is notified by phone or mail that the application will be reviewed at a meeting. Three commissioners must be present at meetings, and a majority must agree on any decisions. Appeals: The applicant has 2 weeks from the date of notification of the board's decision to submit a petition for reconsideration by the commission. The commission shall provide its decision within 30 days of the date of their subsequent review. The applicant may appeal the commission's decision into the court system. BENEFITS Maximum award: $10,000 per person for each victimization occurring on or after July 1, 1997; $5,000 otherwise Compensable Costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling: $2,000 Lost wages/support Funerals: $2,000 plus $400 for grave marker Moving expenses Crime-scene cleanup/evidence: cleanup and for security purposes; clothing and bedding held for evidence Travel: to obtain medical assistance Attorney fees: may be considered if for crime-related purposes other than applying for compensation or filing suit New Hampshire