For members of marginalized groups, fear of being targeted for the sole reason of one's identity is constant. Commonplace crimes can be all the more damaging and even traumatizing when they come from a place of pure, biased hatred. Regaining what your attacker has deprived is a complicated process. Here at Smiley and Smiley, LLP, we strive to use our resources to help you get back on your feet.
The New York Police Department conducts investigations involving hate crimes and other "bias instances" within a special unit: the NYPD Hate Crime Task Force. Article 485 of the New York State Penal Code defines a hate crime as a crime in which the victim is chosen partially or entirely because of "race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or expression, religion, religious practice, age, disability or sexual orientation." New York State courts treat hate crimes as a more serious offense than their parallel crimes on the books. Hate crimes can cause much more personal trauma than randomized crime.
If you have been a victim of a crime, and you believe that you were victimized specifically because of your identity, what should you do?
There are multiple hoops one must jump through in order to get any real financial compensation from OVS. Eligibility requirements are strict, especially for victims who did not file a report with the police immediately, out of shame, denial or any of the many reasons a victim may not wish to divulge information about such a traumatic event so soon. If any of the parties adjacent to your case have shown negligence, you may be able to sue for damages.
With legal expertise and a history of success, Smiley and Smiley, LLP, can help you and your family obtain the compensation you deserve. It may be time to contact us and discuss your legal and financial future.