The purpose of this chapter is to aid victims of criminal acts, by providing compensation for victims of certain crimes or dependents of deceased victims, and for indemnification of private citizens for personal injury or property damage suffered in prevention of crime or apprehension of a criminal.
HRS § 351-1
Attorney General Opinions
No award to someone who suffers psychological or physical trauma in reaction to the death of a crime victim. Att. Gen. Op. 88-2.
In light of its purpose, chapter should be construed liberally in determining eligibility of applicants. 55 H. 514, 523 P.2d 311; 63 H. 254, 625 P.2d 372.