If you’ve been the victim of a violent crime in New Jersey, you may be struggling with medical bills, lost wages, counseling expenses, and more. In these difficult moments, many people ask: What is the New Jersey Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO)? And more importantly, how can it help?
The VCCO is a state-run program that helps victims and their families recover financial losses caused by violent crimes. Even if the person who hurt you was never caught or convicted, you may still be eligible for compensation. At Camili & Capo, we’re committed to helping crime victims across New Jersey understand their rights and get the support they need to move forward.
What is the VCCO?
The New Jersey Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) is part of the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety. Its mission is simple but powerful: to reduce the financial burden that crime victims face in the aftermath of trauma.
This program is not a lawsuit and not a settlement from the person who committed the crime. Instead, it’s a state-funded resource that offers financial assistance for specific losses related to violent crimes.
Who Is Eligible for VCCO Compensation?
You may be eligible for VCCO assistance if:
- You were the direct victim of a violent crime
- You are a surviving family member of someone who died due to a crime
- You were a dependent of the victim (like a spouse or child)
- You suffered serious mental or physical harm because of the incident
- You reported the crime to law enforcement within a reasonable time
- You were injured while assisting an officer with an arrest or trying to prevent a crime from occurring
Examples of crimes that may qualify include:
- Assault or aggravated assault
- Domestic violence
- Sexual assault or abuse
- Human trafficking
- Homicide
- Drunk or hit-and-run driving incidents
You don’t need to wait for a criminal conviction. As long as you cooperate with law enforcement and meet the eligibility rules, your claim can move forward.
What Types of Expenses Does the VCCO Cover?
The VCCO can cover a wide range of crime-related expenses that insurance or other sources may not fully pay for. These include:
- Medical bills (including hospital stays, physical therapy, and ambulance costs)
- Mental health counseling for victims and eligible family members
- Lost wages if you’re unable to work due to the crime
- Funeral expenses up to a certain limit ($7,500)
- Childcare or relocation assistance if needed for safety reasons
- Security systems or locks for victims of domestic violence
- Attorney fees (victim’s rights)
- Crime scene clean-up (up to $4,000)
The maximum payout under VCCO is currently $25,000, with some exceptions going up to $35,000 in cases where catastrophic injuries are sustained.
How Do You Apply for VCCO Compensation?
Applying to the VCCO involves several steps:
1. Report the Crime
You must report the incident to law enforcement within nine months (or show good cause if it's later).
2. Get a Police Report
The VCCO requires documentation that shows the crime occurred and that you cooperated with investigators.
3. Complete the VCCO Application
You can fill out a paper application at any local law enforcement agency or online form through the New Jersey VCCO website.
4. Provide Supporting Documents
This includes medical records, receipts, pay stubs, therapy notes, and proof of loss.
5. Follow Up
The VCCO will review your claim, request any additional information, and make a decision. This process can take several months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Why Do VCCO Claims Get Denied?
Not every claim gets approved. Common reasons for denial include:
- Missing the deadline to file
- Failing to cooperate with law enforcement
- Incomplete or missing documentation
- The crime doesn’t qualify under VCCO rules
- The expenses are already covered by insurance or another source
This is why working with a lawyer who understands the VCCO process can make a big difference. At Camili & Capo, we help clients prepare strong, complete applications and appeal denials when necessary.
Is VCCO the Same as Suing the Offender?
No. The VCCO is a state-funded benefit, not a civil lawsuit. You can apply for VCCO compensation even if:
- The offender was never caught
- The offender was found not guilty
- There is no pending criminal case
- You don’t want to sue or testify in court
That said, if you do choose to file a civil lawsuit later, you must let the VCCO know. If you receive a court-awarded settlement, you may need to repay part of your VCCO award.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Apply?
Yes. Immigration status does not affect your eligibility for VCCO compensation. Victims of crime in New Jersey can apply for support regardless of legal status, as long as they cooperate with law enforcement and meet the other eligibility requirements.
How Camili & Capo Can Help with VCCO Claims
The aftermath of a crime can be overwhelming. You may be juggling hospital visits, police interviews, trauma, and financial stress all at once. That’s where we come in.
At Camili & Capo, we:
- Help clients understand their eligibility
- Guide them through the full application process
- Ensure all required documentation is collected
- Communicate with the VCCO on their behalf
- Appeal denied or reduced claims
- Explore additional legal options for compensation
Whether you were attacked by a stranger, harmed by someone you trusted, or impacted by a tragic act of violence, we’re here to make sure you get the support you need.
New Jersey VCCO: Support and Compensation for Crime Victims
The New Jersey Victims of Crime Compensation Office (VCCO) is a vital safety net for people affected by violence. It’s a way for the state to say, You matter, and we’ll help you recover. While it can’t undo the trauma, it can ease the financial burden and give you space to focus on healing.
If you’re struggling in the aftermath of a crime, don’t try to navigate this system alone. Let our legal team help you file your VCCO claim, gather the right documents, and protect your rights every step of the way.
Get the Help You Deserve from Attorneys Who Care
At Camili & Capo, we know how deeply a crime can impact your life. Our attorneys are here to support you through the legal and emotional recovery process, including filing for compensation through the VCCO.
Whether you're dealing with medical bills, lost wages, or emotional trauma, you don’t have to face it alone. Let us help you secure the resources you’re entitled to and stand with you while you rebuild.
Call us today at (973) 834-8457 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We’re ready to listen, guide you through the VCCO process, and fight for every dollar you’re owed. We represent clients in East Brunswick, North Bergen, Newark, and throughout New Jersey.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. It should not be taken as legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, please contact our legal team directly.
