Program Directory

Massachusetts

Victim Compensation and Assistance Division
Office of the Attorney General

One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
(617) 727-2200
FAX: (617) 742-6262

Division Chief: Sandra Clark (acting)

Web site: www.ago.state.ma.us/sp.cfm?pageid=1657

The attorney general's victim compensation staff determines the eligibility of applications. The division is staffed with investigator/advocates who provide assistance and support to applicants in the process. The state has had a compensation system for victims operating since 1968.

FUNDING
The program receives an annual appropriation, as well as a VOCA grant.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Law enforcement reporting period: 5 days
Filing period: 3 years; to age 21 for minors
Exceptions: Good-cause exception for reporting period
Minimum loss: $100 unreimbursed expenses, unless over 60 years old or victim of rape

PROCEDURES
Applicant files claim for compensation with the Attorney General's Office. The application is processed by program staff, and the applicant informed of the program's determination. Investigator/advocates are available to assist victims in all aspects of the compensation process and to direct victims to other victim services.

Appeals: Applicant has 15 days to file a request for administrative reconsideration. Appeals may also be filed in district court.

BENEFITS
Maximum award: $25,000

Compensable Costs (with limits)

Medical expenses
Mental health counseling
Lost wages/support
Funerals: $4,000
Replacement services: homemaker services and child care
Travel: to obtain treatment
Attorney fees: 15% limitation, paid from victim's award




	Program Directory Massachusetts Victim Compensation and Assistance Division Office of the Attorney General One Ashburton Place Boston, MA 02108 (617) 727-2200 FAX: (617) 742-6262 Division Chief: Sandra Clark (acting) Web site: www.ago.state.ma.us/sp.cfm?pageid=1657 The attorney general's victim compensation staff determines the eligibility of applications. The division is staffed with investigator/advocates who provide assistance and support to applicants in the process. The state has had a compensation system for victims operating since 1968. FUNDING The program receives an annual appropriation, as well as a VOCA grant. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Law enforcement reporting period: 5 days Filing period: 3 years; to age 21 for minors Exceptions: Good-cause exception for reporting period Minimum loss: $100 unreimbursed expenses, unless over 60 years old or victim of rape PROCEDURES Applicant files claim for compensation with the Attorney General's Office. The application is processed by program staff, and the applicant informed of the program's determination. Investigator/advocates are available to assist victims in all aspects of the compensation process and to direct victims to other victim services. Appeals: Applicant has 15 days to file a request for administrative reconsideration. Appeals may also be filed in district court. BENEFITS Maximum award: $25,000 Compensable Costs (with limits) Medical expenses Mental health counseling Lost wages/support Funerals: $4,000 Replacement services: homemaker services and child care Travel: to obtain treatment Attorney fees: 15% limitation, paid from victim's award

Massachusetts

Victim Compensation and Assistance Division Office of the Attorney General

Victim Compensation and Assistance Division
Office of the Attorney General