Why Survivors of Domestic Violence Should Utilize the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (“VCCO”)

In New Jersey, when someone is a survivor of domestic violence and files a Temporary Restraining Order, they may be entitled to assistance through the Victims of Crime Compensation Office (“VCCO”). Survivors of domestic violence are often left with a host of unexpected financial burdens, including attorney’s fees, medical bills, lost wages, relocation needs, increased childcare expenses and the need for additional home security devices. VCCO serves as a financial and procedural lifeline to many survivors of domestic violence across the state and their mission is to help victims and their families get back on their feet by covering expenses when no other funding source exists.
The VCCO provides compensation for many costs that victims and their families would otherwise be forced to shoulder alone. Covered expenses include:

• Attorney’s fees
• Medical, dental, and physical therapy bills
• Mental health counseling
• Hospital care
• Relocation expenses
• Loss of earnings
• Child or dependent care
• Crime scene cleanup
• Attorney’s fees for filing claims

The purpose of VCCO is to ensure survivors don’t face financial ruin for circumstances beyond their control. In addition to financial support, VCCO treats survivors with fairness, compassion and respect. VCCO staff are trained to assist survivors in obtaining the necessary documentation to support their claim. An online application for a claim under VCCO can be found here.

Hiring an attorney with the ability to utilize VCCO in connection with a Temporary and Final Restraining Order is imperative to ensure that survivors (and their families) are not only legally supported, but financially maintained.