Being the victim of a crime is one of the most terrifying things a person can experience. Feelings of violation, anger, sadness, depression, and embarrassment are all too common. In the case where a perpetrator injures you in some way, whether physically or psychologically, the resulting aftermath can be devastating.

Generally, when a person commits a crime against another, the State will bring criminal charges against that person. In this case, the State is the entity “pressing charges” and you, the injured person, are considered the “victim” or “complainant.” The State will seek to hold the person criminally responsible, but is not tasked with the responsibility of compensating the person who has been injured. In order to effectively preserve your right to seek some form of compensation or damages for injuries sustained as a result of criminal actions, it is extremely important that the victim of a crime contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible after an incident. Following a strict and immediate timeline after a crime has been committed against you is far more important when discussing damages for personal injury. The State, or District Attorney generally takes months and even years to file charges, but a civil claim should be sought immediately.

People injured as a result of criminal acts of others often suffer more than any other type of personal injury victim. The psychological impact alone can be enough to severely effect a person for the rest of their life. If a person is physically injured as a result of criminal behavior, these wounds are often severe, and can debilitate a person forever. To ensure that a perpetrator faces consequences, both criminally, and civilly, it is important to contact a personal injury attorney immediately.

Examples of Crime Victims

A crime victim is generally defined as a person who was injured or affected by the illegal actions of another. These actions can be anything from minor class c infractions, to very serious felonies. Anyone who is injured, physically or psychologically, deserves compensation. Common offenses that can lead to mental and physical injuries to a person and/or their family include:

• Assault
• Robbery
• Kidnapping
• Reckless Driving
• DWI
• Sexual Assault & Rape
• Family Violence
• Harassment
• Stalking
• Manslaughter & Murder

Remember, an “injury” is not limited to only physical damage. Victims of crimes and their families often experience horrendous anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological consequences after the incident. These types of injuries are real, and a person can absolutely seek compensation for them. At Chandler | Ross, we understand the seriousness of these injuries, and will work relentlessly to ensure that our clients are compensated. Make no mistake. In almost every case, no amount of money can make up for the injuries or loss that a crime victim or their family experiences, but it is certainly a start. We are here to fight for you and ensure that you receive everything to which you are entitled.

OTHER AVENUES OF RECOVERY

Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund

This is a program in which the Texas Department of Public Safety may issue partial or full compensation for damages incurred by victims of crimes via the Crime Victims’ Compensation Fund. Some common examples of damages that may be sought include:

• Medical bills
• Repair or replacement of damaged property
• Lost wages
• Home health care and associated costs
• Relocation costs
• Funeral expenses

The Texas Department of Public Services may pay these costs, regardless if anyone is actually convicted of the crime. Obviously, this is only a small step towards compensating a crime victim or their family, and will rarely make up for what a crime victim has truly lost. This is one reason it’s important to find an attorney who will fight for EVERYTHING you or your family deserves. At Chandler | Ross, we intend to do just that.

Restitution

Generally, when a person enters a “plea bargain” or is convicted of a crime, Restitution will be ordered by the Court. Restitution can include expenses such as:

• Medical bills
• Missed work
• Damaged or destroyed property
• Counseling and therapy
• Prescription medication costs
• Travel expenses
• Insurance deductibles

** It is important to note that this program does not compensate a person or their family for Mental anguish, Pain & Suffering, or Punitive damages (those sought as a form of punishment). To recover these types of damages (which can often be substantial), it is important to contact a qualified personal

injury attorney. At Chandler | Ross, our Crime Victim personal injury attorneys can ensure that we seek to recover all compensation in which you may be entitled, including that not covered under the Crime Victims’ Compensation program.

What Can the North Texas Crime Victim Injury Attorneys at Chandler | Ross, PLLC do for you?

Because crime victims can experience some of the worst kinds of injuries, with both physical and psychological ramifications, it is extremely important to have attorneys on your side who understand what you are going through. At Chandler | Ross, you are not another case, or another number. We’ll know your case personally, communicate with you directly, take the time to thoroughly investigate your case, and represent your interests with the utmost integrity. To put it simply, we do not set out to seek a “quick settlement.” We plan, and prepare to fight to get you everything you deserve.

With offices in Denton, Tarrant and Dallas Counties, we are positioned to provide the most effective and highly-skilled representation possible. Don’t wait, and don’t compromise – contact us today to see how we can help you. In most cases, you pay nothing unless you win. Contact Us now at (940) 800-2500 to schedule your free personal injury case evaluation and consultation