Criminal Injury Compensation Claims
Claim Time Solicitors specialises in handling criminal injury compensation claims. If you were physically or psychologically injured as a result of a violent offence, you might be able to claim compensation. Rather than bringing a claim against the perpetrator, victims can claim money from the government-sponsored Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme.
With more than 15 years of expertise in handling the criminal injury claims, our dedicated team is here to legally represent you and advocate for your rights.
- With our no win no fee policy we pursue your case without giving you the stress of upfront legal fees
- We offer a free consultation and claim assessment, so speak to our solicitors today!
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Funded by the state, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme is administered by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) and pays out compensation for the victims of crimes including sexual assault, rape etc.
- About 2.2 million victims, or 4.5% of people aged 16 and older, are reported to have been the victims of some kind of domestic abuse in the last year.
- Stalking which is also considered a great offence is reported to have affected about 2.8% of the population equating to approximately 1.4 million people, which is a 0.6% drop from the prior rate of 3.4%( almost 1.6 million victims).
- Talking about sexual assault, over 2.2% of the population(roughly 1 million people) have been a victim of it.
This guide describes how CICA claims function, which kind of injuries and accidents are dealt with, and how much you are likely to receive for your sufferings.
If you are in need of any legal help or advice, our dedicated personal injury solicitors are here for you and operate on a no win no fee policy, so you won’t pay for legal expenses unless your claim ends up being successful. If you would like to know more, you can contact us at 0800 970 2727. We reply to your queries promptly.
Eligibility for a Criminal Injury Compensation Claim
Although no compensation amount given to the client can reverse the damage done to the victim, and the sufferings endured because of the incident, but it can definitely serve to mitigate the financial and emotional difficulties that occur afterwards. The prerequisites for CICA claims are different from typical claims for personal injuries. To become eligible, you should satisfy the following conditions mentioned below:
- You were injured as a result of a violent offense.
- The incident was briefed to the police.
- The complaint is made within two years from the date of the crime.
- There are exceptions where the time-line can be extended, which we will be discussing further in this guide.
Can You Claim If the Culprit Is Unknown?
Yes, a claim for CICA is still possible if the criminal has not yet been arrested, or convicted. You shall not wait until the investigation by the police is completed in order to present your claim. You will have to include evidence of the assault and resulting injuries, most likely from medical reports and police files.
Also, you may need an independent medical examination to validate your claim. The solicitor will organise this test for you whenever you are ready.
Crimes That Qualify for CICA Compensation
For the victim to receive compensation, the injury should have been caused by a crime where the victim was not the offender. Examples of crimes that are covered under the CICA scheme include the following:
- Physical abuse – Injuries caused by violent acts.
- Stabbings with sharp objects – Wounds from pointed objects.
- Robbery – Physical injuries caused during robbery.
- Domestic violence – Physical injury from domestic violence.
- Terrorist attacks – Injuries inflicted because of terrorism.
- Human trafficking – Trauma to trafficking victims.
- Hit-and-run cases – Where an attacker deliberately employed a motor vehicle as a weapon.
- Murder – Surviving attempted homicide victims.
- Kidnapping or false imprisonment – Physical or emotional injury from confinement.
- Rape or sexual assault – Payment of victims of current or past sex violence.
Because CICA claims are based on the balance of probabilities rather than criminal conviction, you could still be covered even if the offender is never prosecuted or caught.
Criminal Injury Compensation Claims -Know more
Each claim is different, and the compensation amount received varies based on the extremity of your case. However, CICA follows a structured tariff system, which outlines the payout amounts for different types of physical and psychological injuries.
If a claim involves multiple injuries, CICA calculates compensation as follows:
- 100% of the amount for the most serious injury
- 30% of the amount for the second most serious injury
- 15% of the amount for the third most serious injury
Having a personal injury solicitor on board can help you determine which injuries should be prioritised for compensation first to ensure maximum compensation in minimum time. The lawyer being well acquainted with the legal landscape and technicalities can guide you well.
Generally, CICA claims must be made within two years of the offense being committed. Although there are few exceptions to it where:
- The allegation involves childhood sexual or physical abuse.
- The physical or mental condition of the victim hindered them from reporting earlier.
For claims involving minors’ criminal injury compensation claims should be filed by their parents or guardians as soon as possible. If no claim is made on their behalf, the minor will have two years from their 18th birthday to apply.
Compensation may also be available for individuals indirectly affected by the crime, such as:
- Family members of a deceased victim.
- Those who covered the funeral expenses.
- Individuals who witnessed a violent crime against a loved one.
The process of claiming compensation can be very challenging at times and leave one feeling disheartened, but with Claim Time Solicitors everything can work in your favour. Our legal team approaches each case with utmost care and dedication, ensuring that you feel encouraged throughout. We completely understand the mental trauma with which you are dealing and try to make the complex process as easy as possible for you.
FAQs
It’s not mandatory to hire a solicitor to make a CICA claim, but professional legal advice will greatly enhance your prospects of obtaining a fair award. A solicitor can:
- Collect evidence – Ensure all relevant police and medical reports are obtained.
- Deal with complex claims – Especially those involving multiple injuries, psychological damage, or historical abuse.
- Obtain maximum compensation – Ensure all relevant losses and injuries are claimed.
- Manage the process efficiently – Deal with all the paperwork and avoid unnecessary delays.
Although not necessary , having a personal injury solicitor can make the process easier and more likely to result in a favorable outcome.
Making a robust, properly documented claim is key to being awarded the appropriate amount of compensation. If our lawyers take on your case, they will:
- Gather all evidence that will strengthen your claim.
- Ensure your application complies with CICA requirements.
- Present your case professionally in order to obtain the best amount of compensation for you.
If you are willing to start the process, you can talk to us on 0800 970 2727. Our advisers will listen to your situation with utmost empathy and will not force you into continuing unless you are prepared.
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