Government Complaints/Government Ombudsman Offices

The department provides victims of crime support through processing of claims or monetary damages against the state. There are no geographic restrictions.

The program processes claims that involve an allegation that an individual has suffered damages because a state agency or employee is responsible for a death, physical injury or property damage. Claims for death or injury must be filed within six months after the incident has occurred; other claims must be filed within one year of the incident. If a deadline was missed, the claimant must file a "leave to present a late claim" within one year.

If the case involves a county, city or other local governmental entity or employee, the claim should be filed directly with the local governing board or clerk. Cases involving Cal State Universities or University of California Universities should be filed directly with the university system itself.