Glossary

CPVC

Published 8 November 2026, 22:53
CPVC — Comissão de Proteção às Vítimas de Crimes (Commission for the Protection of Victims of Crime)

An independent body under the Ministry of Justice that pays victims an advance on compensation on behalf of the state, without waiting for a court to award damages against the offender. Victims of domestic violence are given the advance if what happened has left them in serious financial hardship. The amount is set on an equitable basis, but is no more than the monthly minimum wage and paid for no longer than six months, with a possible extension of another six.

Where you come across it. Domestic violence and violent crimes, when the victim has been left without means.
You must apply within a year of the event, otherwise the right is lost; if there are criminal proceedings, the deadline is extended. The service handling the person's case can apply on their behalf.
Official website: cpvc.justica.gov.pt