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Emergencies & Aid · Legal aid9.5.5Updated on

Crime victim: free support (116 006) and compensation through the CIVI

What is this for

After an assault, violence or theft, you are not alone. The 116 006 helpline and victim support associations inform and support you for free. If the offender cannot pay or is unknown, the Crime Victims Compensation Commission (CIVI) can compensate you under certain conditions.

Important points

  • Warning: CIVI deadline: usually 3 years after the offence, or 1 year after the final criminal court decision if there was a trial. The CIVI may accept a late application for a legitimate reason.
  • Note: If you are in danger now, call 17 or 112. 116 006 is not an emergency number.

Steps to follow

  1. Step 1: Call 116 006

    116 006 is the national victim support number. The call is free, every day from 9am to 8pm. You can also write to victimes@116006.fr. You will be referred to an association or service near you.

  2. Step 2: Meet a victim support association

    The France Victimes network brings together around 130 professional associations. They can inform you about your rights and support you during the legal process.

  3. Step 3: File a complaint if you wish

    A complaint is free, at any police or gendarmerie station. It is often useful for getting compensation later. Keep the receipt.

  4. Step 4: Check whether you can apply to the CIVI

    For serious harm (death, permanent disability, at least one month of total incapacity for work, sexual violence), compensation is possible without income conditions. For lighter harm or theft, there are income conditions and a maximum amount.

  5. Step 5: Submit the application to the CIVI

    Fill in the compensation application form (or use the online service). Send it to the CIVI office at the court, usually the one for your home area, in person or by registered letter. A lawyer is not required for this application.

  6. Step 6: Apply for legal aid if needed

    With a low income, the State can pay all or part of your lawyer's fees. In criminal proceedings (for example as a civil party), the residence condition does not apply.

Documents to prepare

  • Complaint receipt, if you filed a complaint
  • Medical certificates and proof of expenses linked to the offence
  • CIVI compensation application form
  • ID and proof of income (for cases with income conditions)

Official links

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