Criminal Injury Compensation Authority

What is the CICA?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government organisation established to manage a compensation scheme for blameless victims of violent crimes in Great Britain. Its main role is to provide compensation for physical and/or mental injury directly resulting from a violent crime.

How does criminal injury compensation work?

If you wish to make a claim for a criminal injury, you will need to be aware of the various steps, some of which differ from other types of personal injury claim. Our team of CICA specialists will lead you through the entire process so that your claim stands the best chance of success and you receive the maximum amount of compensation.

Reporting the crime to the police

As the CICA requires the crime to have been reported to the police, you will first need to make a report by calling 101 The police will then begin a formal investigation, and you will be provided with a CRN (crime reference number).

This step is crucial as you are required to have a crime reference number to begin a claim with the CICA.

It is also important that the crime is reported to the police ‘as soon as reasonably practicable’ and that you continue to co-operate with the police throughout the investigation.

Our experienced CICA specialists will be able to advise on this step in further detail, according to your specific circumstances.

Who can make criminal injury claims?

A range of individuals can make a criminal injury compensation claim through the CICA, including:

• A person who has been physically or mentally injured as a direct result of a violent crime committed in England, Scotland, or Wales
• A close relative of a person who has died as a result of a violent crime, for instance, to claim for bereavement or dependency
• A person who has been injured while taking an exceptional and justified risk, typically while trying to remedy or prevent a crime
• A person who has sustained an injury while being a direct witness to an incident, or during the immediate aftermath, in which a loved one is intentionally killed or seriously injured

In addition, there are further eligibility criteria set by the CICA such as residency requirements and crime reporting obligations. For full understanding of your eligibility to make a claim, we strongly recommend seeking professional legal advice. Our experienced CICA specialists can provide you with a comprehensive assessment of your case and guide you through the claims process.

Do I need a CICA specialist to make a criminal injury claim?

While it is not a legal requirement to instruct a CICA specialist to make a criminal injury claim, it is highly recommended. The CICA claims process can be complex and requires careful handling to maximise the chances of a successful outcome.

CICA specialists can provide invaluable guidance and expertise, ensuring that the application is completed accurately, that sufficient evidence is gathered, and that all eligibility requirements are met. Furthermore, they can advise you on the appropriate amount of compensation to claim based on your unique circumstances, help you understand the legal jargon involved, and provide emotional support during this challenging time.

Our experienced team of lawyers can provide comprehensive advice and support to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. We understand the physical and emotional trauma that can result from violent crime, and we are here to guide you through every step of the claims process with compassion and sensitivity.

What is the criminal injury compensation claims process?

1. Eligibility check: before initiating a claim, it is important to establish whether you are eligible. Eligibility factors include reporting the incident to the police promptly, the nature of the injuries sustained, and whether the incident occurred within the last two years.
2. Application submission: the next step is to fill out and submit the application form to the CICA. This process requires comprehensive details about the crime, your injuries, and any impact on your life.
3. Application assessment: the CICA will then assess your application which may involve reviewing police reports, medical evidence, and possibly requesting further information.
4. Compensation calculation: if your application is approved, the CICA will calculate your compensation based on the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life.
5. Award offer and acceptance: the CICA will then make an offer of compensation. If you accept the offer, the CICA will arrange payment. If you disagree with the amount, there is an opportunity to request a review.

How much compensation can I claim for a criminal injury?

The amount of compensation you may claim for a criminal injury varies greatly, as it is based on the specifics of your case, including the type and severity of your injury, any loss of earnings you may have suffered, and the impact of the crime on your life.

What kind of compensation can I claim for a criminal injury?

The compensation received through the CICA is primarily for the injury itself. However, it may also include elements such as:

1. Physical and mental injuries: this is compensation for the injury itself, calculated based on a tariff system set by the CICA, which specifies amounts for different types of injuries.
2. Loss of earnings: if you have been unable to work, or will be unable to work in the future as a result of your injuries, you may be eligible to claim for loss of earnings. This is subject to certain conditions, including that you have been off work for more than 28 weeks as a result of the injury.
3. Special damages: these are costs that you have incurred as a result of the crime. They may include medical expenses, care costs or adaptations needed for your home. However, these are only compensated if the injury is so severe that you have no capacity to work.

Is there a limit on the amount of compensation I can receive through the CICA?

The CICA operates on a tariff system, which determines the amount of compensation awarded based on the severity of the injury or harm experienced. The minimum amount of compensation that can be awarded is £1,000. The maximum amount of compensation that can be received through the CICA is £500,000.

How long do I have to make a criminal injury claim?

There are a number of time-sensitive factors that victims must be aware of when making a CICA claim.

Specifically, the CICA requires a claim to be made within two years from the date of the incident or the report conducted by the police.

If a victim is under the age of 18 years old, then the time period begins on the day of their 18th birthday. Or the time limit will run for two years after a police report is made after the incident.

The CICA is also able to extend time limits for exceptional or extenuating circumstances in which the victim was unable to apply within the regular time frame.

How long does it take to claim criminal injury compensation?

The duration of the criminal injury claims process varies from case to case and is dependent on several factors, including the complexity of the case, the severity of the injury, and how quickly necessary evidence is provided. It is not uncommon for claims to take several years and more complex cases may take longer.

We understand the urgency and importance of receiving your compensation and will work diligently to ensure that your claim is processed as swiftly and efficiently as possible, providing you with updates and support throughout the entire process.