Here we will provide you with a brief overview of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), as it can play a key role in your claim, particularly if you have been assaulted.
What is CICA?
The CICA is a government-funded organisation that provides compensation to individuals who have been physically or psychologically injured as a result of a violent crime in England and Wales.
The scheme is intended to support innocent victims of crime and acknowledges the harm they have suffered when other forms of compensation is unavailable.
It is designed to offer financial support to victims who may not be able to seek compensation directly from the person responsible, often because the offender cannot be identified or has no means to pay.
You do not need to know the identity of the offender or see them convicted in order to make a successful claim. However, the CICA will require evidence from the police to confirm that a violent crime took place.
What Do You Need To Be Eligible For a CICA Award?
To be eligible for a CICA award, certain criteria must be met, including:
- The incident must have been reported to the police promptly
- The application must usually be submitted within two years of the incident
- The applicant must have sustained a qualifying injury under the CICA’s tariff of injuries
- There must be no involvement in the incident (e.g., criminal activity) that could disqualify or reduce the award.
The process can be complex, especially when dealing with psychological injuries or cases involving minors or historical abuse.
The process involves submitting an application to the CICA, who will then assess the claim based on the available evidence, including medical records and police reports.
Please note that compensation amounts are based on a fixed tariff system depending on the type and severity of the injury, and awards can also include compensation for loss of earnings and special expenses in certain cases.
Final Thoughts
At Harris Fowler, we are experienced in handling CICA claims and are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring your application is as strong and complete as possible.
We are able to assist with advising you on your eligibility, gathering the necessary evidence, submitting your application, and potentially appealing or reviewing decisions if your claim is refused or under-awarded.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need further clarification on 0800 213 214
