Criminal and Abuse Claims

Criminal and Abuse Claims at Advantage Solicitors. If you have been the victim of a crime it is possible to claim damages via a Government body. The body is known as the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) in order to bring a claim you must be an innocent victim of a crime which resulted in personal injury. The CICA scheme has its own rules and they are rather strictly applied. The claims can take a vast amount of time to be resolved. In the event that the outcome of the CICA claim is not as expected then there are options of successfully appealing against the decisions made.

In order to make a successful claim for a CICA, it must be established that you are the innocent victim of a violent crime. If this is proven the state will compensate you so long as your injuries are such that they exceed the £1000 tariff. In the event that the CICA find out that you have participated in the assault they can withhold or reduce your compensation.

What are the firsts steps that you should take?

The incident must be reported to the police as soon as it occurs, this is important in order for the police to investigate the matter and bring the assailant before the criminal courts and where necessary to be charged. If you suffer the assault at your workplace or during your employment the incident must be reported to your employer.

How long do you have to start your claim?

The rule in CICA claims is that an application must be made within the 2 years of the date of assault. However, if you take a longer time to make an application the CICA may not be willing to accept your claim for compensation.

What can I do if CICA refuse my claim?

If the CICA accept to investigate your claim they will assess and pay you compensation based on your injuries. They will provide you with information as to how they have calculated your compensation. If your claim for compensation by the CICA is rejected, then we can request them to provide us with their reasons for doing so. This request for review must be made within 90 days of the initial decision. In the event that you do not accept the CICA’s decision you have the option of appealing. This appeal must be made in 90 days of the review decision.

If you have been a victim of crime and sustained physical or psychological injuries, please call our experienced team of lawyers who are always here to provide advice and support.