Criminal Injury Compensation - CICA Claims Explained

Criminal Injury Compensation - A Complete Guide

If you've been the victim of a violent crime in England, Wales, or Scotland, you may be entitled to compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). This government scheme compensates victims when they can't claim from the offender.

Who Can Claim?

You may be eligible if:

• You were injured in a violent crime in Great Britain
• The crime was reported to police
• You cooperated with the investigation
• You're applying within the time limit

What Crimes Are Covered?

• Assault (ABH, GBH, wounding)
• Sexual assault and rape
• Robbery with violence
• Domestic violence
• Child abuse
• Terrorism
• Hit and run (untraced driver)

Time Limits

• Adults: 2 years from date of incident
• Children: Until their 20th birthday
• Late applications: Possible in exceptional circumstances

Compensation Amounts

CICA uses a tariff system. Example awards:

Physical Injuries

• Minor injury (recovered in 6 weeks): £1,000
• Fractured jaw: £4,400 - £10,400
• Loss of eye: £27,000 - £40,000
• Paralysis: £87,000 - £250,000

Psychological Injuries

• Temporary mental anxiety: £1,000 - £2,000
• Moderate psychological injury: £4,600 - £10,400
• Severe psychological injury: £22,000 - £44,000

Sexual Offences

• Non-penetrative: £2,000 - £11,000
• Rape: £11,000 - £44,000
• Child abuse (pattern): £4,600 - £44,000

Additional Compensation

On top of injury compensation, you may claim:

• Loss of earnings (past and future)
• Special expenses (aids, equipment)
• Dependents' payments (if fatal injury)

What Can Reduce Your Award?

• Unspent criminal convictions - Yours, not the offender's
• Failure to cooperate - With police or CICA
• Contributory conduct - If you share some blame
• Living with offender - Special rules apply

The Claims Process

1. Apply online at gov.uk/claim-compensation-criminal-injury
2. CICA reviews your application
3. They may request medical records and police reports
4. Medical examination may be arranged
5. Decision made (can take 12+ months)
6. Option to appeal if unhappy

Do You Need a Solicitor?

You can apply yourself, but a solicitor helps with:

• Complex cases
• Maximising your award
• Appeals against decisions
• Cases involving psychological injury

Get Help

MCR Solicitors assists CICA applicants and appeals. Call 0161 466 1280 for advice on your criminal injury claim.