How To Apply For Victims Compensation In Arkansas
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Victims compensation programs exist to provide financial relief to individuals who have suffered harm as a result of violent crimes. In Arkansas, the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board administers the victims compensation program. This guide provides an overview of how victims compensation works in Arkansas, including eligibility criteria, the types of compensation available, the application process, and tips for navigating the system.
The Purpose of Victims Compensation
Victims compensation programs are designed to assist individuals who have been victims of violent crimes, helping them recover from the financial impacts of their experience. The Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board is the state agency that administers this program. The goal is to provide financial relief for expenses related to the crime, such as medical costs, mental health counseling, lost wages, and more.
Eligibility Criteria in Arkansas
To be eligible for victims compensation in Arkansas, individuals must generally:
- Be a victim of a violent crime
- Report the crime to law enforcement
- File an application within the required timeframe
Victims may be eligible if:
- They are a victim of a crime that occurred in Arkansas;
- They are an Arkansas resident victimized in another state that does not have a compensation program; or
- They are a non-resident who was victimized in Arkansas.
Overview of Compensation Benefits
Arkansas victims compensation can cover a range of expenses, including:
- Medical Expenses – Hospital care, surgeries, doctor visits, prescription medications, and other treatment related to the crime.
- Mental Health Counseling – Therapy and counseling services to help victims cope with trauma.
- Funeral and Burial Costs – For crimes that result in death, compensation may cover reasonable funeral and burial expenses.
- Lost Wages – Reimbursement for income lost if the victim is unable to work due to the crime.
- Property Loss – In some cases, compensation may be available for property that was damaged or lost as a result of the crime.
The Application Process
Applying for victims compensation in Arkansas generally involves:
- Research the program
- Complete the application
- Review and submit
- Follow up
Documentation Required
Arkansas Victims Compensation Office
Apply directly with the state program below. If you were injured during a violent crime, you may also be entitled to additional compensation through a civil claim — our attorneys review every case at no charge.
Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board
323 Center St., Suite 600, Little Rock, AR 72201
- (501) 682-1020
- Toll-Free1-800-448-3014
- Fax(501) 682-5313
dps.arkansas.gov
Are Other Types of Compensation Available?
If you were injured at a business or property due to inadequate security or negligent maintenance, you may be able to pursue a premises liability claim in addition to state compensation. Our attorneys help victims who were injured at:
- Hotels & Motels
- Apartment Complexes
- Shopping Plazas & Malls
- Parking Garages & Lots
- Nightclubs & Bars
- Casinos & Entertainment Venues
- Schools & College Campuses
- Hospitals & Medical Centers
- Public Transportation Hubs
- Office Buildings & Business Parks
- Sports Arenas & Stadiums
- Event Venues & Concert Halls
- Gas Stations
- Residential Communities & Gated Neighborhoods
If your injury occurred at any of these or similar locations, you may be entitled to civil compensation beyond state victims compensation. Call us to discuss your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for victims compensation in Arkansas?
Victims compensation in Arkansas is generally available to individuals directly harmed by a qualifying violent crime, such as assault, domestic violence, sexual assault, or homicide. Certain family members or dependents of homicide victims may also qualify. The crime must typically be reported to law enforcement, the victim must cooperate with the investigation, and the application must be filed within the required timeframe.
What expenses does the Arkansas victims compensation program cover?
The Arkansas victims compensation program can cover medical expenses, mental health counseling, funeral and burial costs, lost wages, and in some cases property loss related to the crime. Exact coverage limits and eligible expenses are set by the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board, so applicants should review the program’s guidelines or contact the Board directly for details.
How long does it take to receive victims compensation in Arkansas?
Processing times vary depending on the complexity of the claim, how quickly supporting documents are provided, and the Board’s workload. It often takes several months from the date a complete application is submitted to receive a decision and any approved payment. For more precise timing, applicants should contact the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board.
Can I apply for victims compensation if the offender is not convicted?
Yes. In Arkansas, a criminal conviction is generally not required for victims compensation. As long as the crime is reported to law enforcement, the victim cooperates with the investigation, and other eligibility criteria are met, the victim may qualify based on the evidence of the crime and their resulting losses.
What can I do if my Arkansas victims compensation claim is denied?
If your claim is denied, review the denial letter to understand the reasons, contact the Arkansas Crime Victims Reparations Board to clarify any misunderstandings or provide missing information, and follow the Board’s appeal procedures if you believe the decision was incorrect. You may also wish to seek help from an attorney or victim advocate experienced with compensation claims.
Injured During a Violent Crime?
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