The Quebec government is allowing up to two friends or relatives of homicide victims to be compensated for costs associated with attending the killer's trial.
Justice Minister Stephanie Vallee said today a victim's loved ones will soon be able to charge the government up to $2,000 each.
Costs that will be covered by the program include transportation, lodging and food.
Vallee says family and friends of homicide victims often can't afford to attend the killer's legal proceedings when doing so can be a crucial step in the grieving process.
She says the government is setting aside $480,000 annually for the program, which will be administered by an organization that helps the victims of criminal acts.
Vallee says the program should be up and running by the end of the year.