Your Rights if Injured by a Violent Crime

Question:
I was injured as a result of a violent crime. Do I have any rights?

Answer:
Yes. In addition to criminal prosecution of your attacker, you may be entitled to compensation under the Crime Victims Compensation Act. This law set up a fund that provides limited benefits to innocent victims of violent crimes. It pays for some medical care, funeral expenses, lost earnings, and other benefits, up to a maximum of $25,000.00.

To be eligible, an adult victim must promptly report the crime to the police, cooperate fully with law enforcement, and file a claim with the Office of the Attorney General of Texas in Austin within three years of the crime.