Recovering From Crime: Steps for the Physically Injured Victim

• NCJ Number: 254849
• Date Published: July 2006
• Length: 2 pages
• Publication Series: OVC Fact Sheets
• Agencies: OVC
• Corporate Author: Office for Victims of Crime (OVC)
• Sale Source: Office for Victims of Crime (OVC)
• Publication Series: OVC Fact Sheets
• Publication Format: Document (Online)Factsheet
• Publication Type: Instructional Material (Programmed); Factsheet
• Country: United States of America
• Note: See the following related resources: NCJ 213709 Recovering From Your Crime-Related Injuries (NCJ 215732 Spanish) and NCJ 212974 Multimedia Program To Improve Criminal Justice System Participation and Reduce Distress Among Physically Injured Crime Victims (NCJ 215731 Spanish).

Annotation

This online brochure, which was developed to accompany the DVD entitled "Recovering From Your Crime-Related Injuries," outlines four steps in addressing the physical injuries, mental stress, financial costs, and rights that stem from being a crime victim.

Abstract

The first step to recovery is entitled "Heal Your Injuries." This step involves committing to physical healing by consulting with and following medical directions, both while in and after leaving the hospital. Regarding mental attitude, this step cautions against blaming oneself for the injuries and urges having confidence in one's ability to recover from the victimization's physical injuries. The second step in recovery is entitled "Apply for Crime Victim Compensation." This step focuses on victim efforts to access legally mandated financial compensation to cover financial losses and recovery expenses directly caused by the crime. The third step is entitled "Understand Your Rights." The rights emphasized pertain to police protection from threats and harm by an accused defendant in the crime; the right to be informed about case processing in the criminal justice system; the right to be present at case legal proceedings; and the right to comment on plea bargains in the case. The fourth step is entitled "Recognize Your Feelings," which advises victims to accept as normal disturbing thoughts and feelings that stem from a traumatic victimization.