Brottsskade

Brottsskade refers to compensation for victims of crime in Sweden. The system is managed by the Swedish Crime Victim Compensation and Support Authority (Brottsskadenämnden). Its purpose is to provide financial assistance to individuals who have suffered physical or psychological injury due to a crime. This compensation can cover costs such as medical treatment, lost income, pain and suffering, and in tragic cases, funeral expenses.

To be eligible for brottsskade, the crime must have occurred in Sweden. The victim must have suffered a demonstrable injury as a direct result of the criminal act. There are also time limits for applying, generally within three years of the crime. The compensation is not intended to fully replace what the victim might have received through civil litigation but aims to alleviate the immediate financial burden caused by the crime.

The application process involves submitting a detailed application form along with supporting documentation, such as medical reports and police reports. The Brottsskadenämnden then assesses the claim based on specific legal criteria. If an application is approved, the amount of compensation is determined based on the severity of the injury and the economic losses incurred. The system is funded through state budgets, emphasizing a societal responsibility to support those harmed by criminal acts.