Criminal Injury Compensation Claims
For victims of criminal injury, very often their lives are never the same again. No amount of money can make up for the pain and anguish but it might at least go some way to ease the suffering.
If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s criminal act, even if they have not been convicted, you might be able to claim compensation. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is a Central Government fund which exists to compensate victims of violent crime.
We will guide you through the procedure and, if necessary, represent you at an appeal hearing to make sure that you recover the compensation you deserve.
What is CICA?
A CICA claim is an application submitted to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). This application is for compensation following a violent attack in which the victim suffered psychological or physical injuries.
How long does a CICA claim take?
Unfortunately, it is incredibly difficult to give a definitive time scale for claims of this nature.
The current time scales that we are experiencing are in excess of 2 years from the date of the application being made.
However, at Morecrofts we are able to manage the cases as efficiently as possible and take the hassle out of the applicant’s hands no matter how long the claim takes.
What compensation can I receive?
The compensation for each injury is detailed in The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme 2012.
This tariff is standardised, and the award amount is not something that can be negotiated (unless further evidence is provided, and a review required).
Claims can be made for a wide range of injuries lasting for different ranges of time.
Is there a time limit to claim through CICA?
A CICA claim must be made as soon as reasonably possible, no later than two years after the event occurred if you are an adult.
The following special provisions have been made for victims under 18:
- If the event occurred before you turned 18 the application must be received by your 20th birthday provided that the incident was reported to the police before you turned 18.
- Or, within two years following the first report to the police if the incident occurred on or after your 18th birthday.
The CICA will only accept applications outside of this timescale under exceptional circumstances. If you believe that your claim involves exceptional circumstances, then please contact us and we can assess the prospects of a successful claim.