Claims for Injuries Resulting from Violent Crime

Injuries from Violent Crime

Victims of violent crime and abuse often find their lives are instantly turned upside down. From dealing with physical injuries and their consequences, to emotional scarring and mental health struggles, the impact of the incident and subsequent investigations and court processes can have on the victim should not be underestimated.

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (‘CICA’) is a government funded scheme put in place to help those victims where they can, providing them with much needed compensation to go some way to rebuilding their lives.

Who can bring a claim under the CICA scheme?

In order to pursue a CICA claim, there are certain criteria that must be met. These include:

- - - The incident must have happened within the last two years (although there may be leeway in exceptional circumstances)
    - The incident must have taken place in Great Britain, or other “relevant place” as set out by the Scheme
    - The victim must usually have been resident in the UK on the date of the incident
    - The incident must have been reported to the police. However, a victim is encouraged not to wait until any criminal proceedings are completed, and a lack of conviction does not necessarily preclude the victim from making a claim.
    - The injured person should not have any unspent convictions. Unspent convictions may result in any award being withheld.

This is not an exhaustive list, and we can discuss whether your individual circumstances would meet the necessary criteria in a free telephone call with you.

It is also possible to bring a claim where you have lost a close relative. This would work slightly differently, as the claim would be for the loss suffered by those left behind, such as dependants who relied upon the victim.

what can be claimed for?

Victims of violent crime may be compensated for their injuries, but also for any special expenses, being expenses you needed to incur as a direct result of your criminal injury. This could range from physical aids such as wheelchairs and specially adapted vehicles, to adaptations to your home. However, to be eligible to claim for these, your injury needs to have been so serious that you have lost earnings or earning capacity, or have been incapacitated to a similar extent, for more than 28 weeks. You may also claim for your lost earnings, but the Scheme will only pay from “week 29” after the incident – the first 28 weeks would not be compensated.

If you have been the victim of a violent crime, contact us today to discuss how we can help you. We’re on your side.