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Assistance for victims of domestic violence is available at the state level from the
Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission ACVCC provides a special $500 emergency
claim for domestic violence victims who are in a recognized shelter. The special claim
can be received by anyone in a shelter throughout the state. It is provided so domestic
violence victims can replace items that may have been left behind when they fled their
abuser.
The victim can also file for a regular injury claim through ACVCC for up to $10,000.
The regular claim goes through a review process, and if the victim returns to the abuser
this claim can be reduced or denied. However, the $500 emergency claim has no conditions
attached. The special claim program was implemented in February 1997, and representatives
of ACVCC are training shelter personnel statewide so they will be aware that the emergency
money is available to domestic violence victims in their shelters.
ACVCC also pays for rape kits that are provided to rape victims in hospitals throughout
the state. Victims’ Assistance officers in District Attorneys’ offices provide referrals
to local domestic violence programs and shelters throughout the state.
In an effort to alleviate hardships suffered by victims of crime, the Alabama Legislature
passed the Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission Law on June 1, 1984.
Alabama's compensation law covers a variety of expenses for which compensation is paid. The
Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission provides the only substantial financial
compensation to victims for expenses for personal injuries including medical, funeral and
counseling bills.
This assistance lessens the financial burden on innocent victims of violent crime and serves
as a vehicle of hope for the rights of crime victims.
Our state law is unique. It requires a victim or family member of a victim of violent crime
to serve on the three-member commission which hears victim compensation cases. This provision
insures that claims are reviewed from the victim's standpoint.
Now there is hope for victims of crime. You can begin the healing process by calling the
Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission in Montgomery to find out if you qualify.
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