The CICA (Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority) is a government body set up to compensate victims of violent crime. The scheme is used to compensate victims who may not be able to claim compensation from those responsible for causing their injuries.
We have a team of experienced CICA solicitors who can make a CICA claim on your behalf and appeal decisions made by the Authority.
What criminal injuries can I claim for?
If you have been a victim of a violent crime you may be able to recover compensation for some of the following:
- assault including ABH and GBH
- threats of violence that have caused psychological injuries
- a loved one being murdered
- domestic abuse
CICA Claims Process
CICA claims generally go through a three stage procedure. Your claim could be settled during any one of these three stages.
- Commencement Stage
Your Claim is submitted to the CICA. After they have requested and received police and medical evidence they will decide whether to pay compensation and the amount. - Review Stage
If you disagree with the initial decision by the CICA, a review application needs to be submitted within 56 days of the initial decision. At this stage, the CICA will reassess your claim and may ask for further evidence. - Appeal Stage
If you are still unhappy with the CICA decision, an appeal can be made at the CICA Tribunal. This is separate to the CICA, but the Tribunal’s decision is usually final.
How much compensation will I receive?
Compensation for CICA claims is set at fixed levels and depends on the severity of the injury and the type of injury. You can claim for up to three injuries through the CICA.
- You will receive 100% of the compensation for the most serious of the injuries.
- 30% of the compensation award is for the second most serious injury.
- 15% of the compensation award is given to the third most serious injury.
The minimum amount of compensation the scheme awards is £1,000.00 and the maximum amount is £500,000.00 which relates to the most severe injuries.
Compensation can also be provided for loss of earnings and expenses.
Two years from the date of the crime is the normal time limit for making a CICA claim. However, there are some exceptions which include: children, where a claim can be made at any point before the child’s 20th birthday. The CICA also allow claims if there are exception circumstances and reasons for delaying claiming, for example if the person claiming lacks mental capacity.
In all instances, it is best to begin a CICA claim as soon as you are able.
Our team of experienced solicitors will handle these cases on a No Win No Fee basis and notify you of all developments at every key stage.
If you have an unspent criminal conviction the CICA will usually reject your claim. Your case may also be rejected if you delayed reporting your case to the police or did not co-operate with their investigation.
Why choose Edwards Duthie Shamash to handle your CICA claim
We have a compassionate, friendly and experienced team of solicitors who specialise in CICA claims. We often handle CICA claims that involve complex injuries including brain injuries, fatalities and severe psychological injuries.
We will keep you informed of all developments and make sure that we keep regular contact with the CICA throughout the duration of your claim.
