🌾 Missouri Victim Rights & Resources
If you are a survivor of abuse, crime, or professional misconduct in Missouri, this guide provides the tools you need to understand your rights, report violations, and access compensation and support programs, including VOCA-funded services.
⛔️ This guide is not a substitute for legal advice. If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or reach out to a crisis hotline listed on our Support and Help page. While we strive to provide accurate, current information, laws and agency procedures may change. Always verify details directly with official sources or consult a licensed attorney in your area.
📜 Your Rights Under Missouri Law
Under the Missouri Constitution and Victims’ Rights Law, you have the right to:
- Be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect
- Be informed of court proceedings and the release of the accused
- Be heard at sentencing and parole hearings
- Confer with the prosecuting attorney
- Receive restitution
🔗 Missouri Office for Victims of Crime 🔗 Missouri Constitution – Article I, Section 32
📂 Public Records & Documentation
Victims can request:
- Police reports and case files
- Court records and sentencing information
- 911 recordings, dash/body cam footage (when available)
💡 Use the Missouri Sunshine Law to request public records. Submit in writing and keep documentation of your request.
🏥 Requesting Medical Records
You can request:
- Your own medical records
- Records for a dependent or deceased person (if legally authorized)
🔗 How to File a HIPAA Complaint – HHS.gov
🧑⚕️ Reporting Licensed Healthcare Providers
Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts:
https://pr.mo.gov/healingarts
Missouri State Board of Nursing:
https://pr.mo.gov/nursing
Behavioral Health, Counseling, and Social Work Licensing Boards:
https://pr.mo.gov/professions.asp
Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services – Facility Complaints:
https://health.mo.gov
⚠️ Always document your complaint, save confirmations, and retain a copy for your records.
💰 Victim Compensation in Missouri
The Missouri Crime Victims’ Compensation Program provides reimbursement for certain expenses.
Covered expenses may include:
- Medical and counseling treatment
- Lost wages or loss of support
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Relocation or safety-related costs
Eligibility Requirements:
- Crime must be reported within 48 hours
- File a claim within 2 years (with exceptions)
- Cooperate with the investigation and prosecution
🔗 Missouri Crime Victims’ Compensation Program 📞 Phone: (573) 526-6006 or 1-800-347-6881
🤝 VOCA-Funded Services in Missouri
VOCA support is managed by the Missouri Department of Public Safety’s Crime Victims’ Services Unit.
🔗 Missouri VOCA Services 📞 General Info: (573) 526-1464
No matter your story, you have rights. The Novel Advocate is here to make sure you’re seen, supported, and empowered every step of the way.
🌾 From Ozark ridgelines to inner-city halls, Missouri survivors — your voice is the seed of accountability.
