Office of the State's Attorney for Wicomico County


	The Criminal Injuries Compensation Board provides financial assistance for victims of crime. The Board may compensate victims who suffer from physic helping with medical expenses, and by providing payment for part of their loss. In cases of homicide, the Board may assist with funeral expenses and loss on the part of the victim's dependents. The Criminal Injuries Compensation operates under the auspices of the Maryland Department of Public Safety an Correctional Services. Who may file a claim? A person who suffers physical injury as a result of a crime A surviving spouse or child of a homicide victim Any person who is dependent for principal support from a homicide victim Any person who assumed responsibility for funeral expenses of a homicide What must you do to qualify? You must report the crime to the police within 48 hours You must have incurred at least $100 in out-of-pocket expenses or have lost two continuous weeks' earnings How soon must you file your claim? A claim should be filed within 180 days from the date of the crime or the dec?? victim. Time limits may be waived for good cause. In cases of child abuse, be filed within two years after the crime was discovered. How do I file a claim? Claim forms may be obtained by calling the Criminal Injuries Compensation How much may the Board award? Medical expenses up to $45,000 Disability up to $25,000 Funeral expenses $5,000 Total dependency $25,000 Partial dependency $17,000 Psychiatric counseling $5,000 The maximum allowable award in any claim is $45,000. Some limitations may apply. To request claim forms or for additional information, call 410-585-3010 (TTY 800-735-2258 ) (Information reprinted from the Crime Victims' Assistance brochure)