Information on Attorneys

It is not necessary to have an attorney to file a claim with the Crime Victims Compensation Program. The Crime Victims Compensation Program cannot pay attorney's fees for assisting a victim with the filing of a compensation application.

The claimant may have an attorney or other representative present at any appeals proceeding. In addition to the amount of compensation awarded to a successful claimant, a reasonable fee may be awarded to the claimant's attorney for services rendered in connection with an appeals proceeding. Pursuant to DC Code §4-512(g), except for necessary costs, an attorney shall not charge, demand, receive, or collect a fee for services rendered in connection with a claim for compensation in excess of 10 percent of the claimant's award or $500, whichever is less.