NCJ Number
97114
Journal
New Jersey Lawyer Dated: (May 1984) Pages: 22-27
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews the authority, administration, and organization of New Jersey's Violent Crimes Compensation Board over its first decade of operation, as well as eligibility requirements, the types of injuries compensated, types of benefits, the conduct of the hearing, claimants' due process rights, and the role of the claimant's attorney.
Abstract
The Violent Crimes Compensation Board is part of the executive branch of State government, with five members appointed by the Governor and approved by the senate. Board members are generally responsible for deciding compensation claims. The hearing process is the board's main procedural responsibility. Eligible claimants are victims of criminal acts, persons responsible for support of such victims, and dependents of homicide victims. Awards are restricted to specific personal physical injuries and exclude psychic or mental damages. The board must adhere to standards of due process. Lawyers play an important role in the process. Attorneys whose clients have been victimized should make them aware of the compensation program and guide the individual through the application process. Attorneys should also carefully screen cases to see if they meet eligibility requirements. Tables summarizing decisions and reasons for denying claims are included. Forty-nine footnotes are supplied.