You are eligible for compensation for all crime-related costs, including medical expenses.

• • Almost always, you will be better off if you employ a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible after being accused of a crime or even when you believe you are the target of a criminal investigation. Your attorney is better able to develop a strong defense on your side when he is involved from the start. Early legal representation from a criminal defense attorney guarantees you don't unintentionally say something incorrect to the police or another law enforcement organization.
  • People frequently think they can "explain" their side of the story in a way that would keep them safe, but they frequently end up being quite dissatisfied with the results. Keep in mind that police officers are trained to elicit information from you, and that once they have your comments on the record, they will unquestionably use them against you, even if it means removing them from context.

• • You might be eligible for benefits if you've been the victim of crime to aid with financial troubles brought on by the incident.
  • You have 72 hours to report the offense.
  • One year after the incident's date, applicants must submit their applications in order to be considered.  (You can contact Victim Services Information to request the application or go to your local state attorney's office or victim advocate office.