VCF Adds Deputy Special Master

Administering the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) is a significant responsibility. Despite notable progress, the Special Master and her staff have faced criticism for the pace at which claims are being processed. As of October 2013, the VCF had a staff of 75, including 11 attorneys working directly under the Special Master. The Special Master herself is serving pro bono. To meet the increasing logistical demands of administering the Fund, the workforce has continued to increase in number.

In April of 2014, a Deputy Special Master was added to the VCF staff to assist with the recently initiated VCF claim hearings and other managerial duties. The new Deputy, Ms. Nell McCarthy, has had extensive experience with public service and charitable work. Her resume includes the following notable positions:

• White House Deputy Director of Cabinet Affairs
• Senior Advisor for Justice and Regulatory Policy for the Domestic Policy Council
• Former Assistant U.S. Attorney
• Author of Remembering Those Still With Us: Protecting September Eleventh Survivors from Their Future

Ms. McCarthy was only one block from the World Trade Center when the 9/11 attacks began. She and many other VCF staffers feel personally invested in the successful administration of the Fund.

Efforts are being made to ensure that all cases receive appropriate attention. Nevertheless, even with the addition of personnel, the scope of the task remains tremendous and VCF staff may not prioritize applications that are incomplete or faulty. Having an experienced VCF lawyer on your side can help ensure the prompt and proper processing of your application. Consult with Barasch & McGarry today.