NCJ Number
78959
Date Published
1979
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This report describes the activities of New Jersey's Violent Crimes Compensation Board for the period between January 1, 1978, and December 31, 1978.
Abstract
The board was established in 1971 to provide financial assistance to those victims of violent crimes who suffered personal injuries. Compensation is paid for nonreimbursable medical expenses and loss of earnings incurred as a result of injuries. Compensation may also be paid to the dependents of a deceased victim. In 1978, the board received 850 claims for compensation and rendered 484 decisions, resulting in an increase in the open claims backlog to 2,804. Awards were provided in 269 claims, while 215 claims were denied for various reasons. From 2 to 3 years elapsed from the initial application to the ultimate disposition, although the board recognized that ideally claims should be concluded within 1 year of receipt by the board. Over half the claims were for assault. Illustrative cases, court decisions, total disbursements, a statistical summary for 1979, and a summary of guidelines regarding eligibility for claims and the handling of claims are provided.