Criminal Injuries Compensation

If you've been the victim of a violent crime, you may be entitled to compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Our specialist solicitors help victims navigate this complex process and secure maximum compensation.

What Our Criminal Injuries Solicitors Can Help With

We represent victims of all types of violent crime for CICA compensation:

• Physical Assault: Attacks causing injuries from minor to life-threatening
• Sexual Offences: Rape, sexual assault, and other sexual crimes
• Domestic Violence: Injuries from partners, family members, or household members
• Robbery and Mugging: Street crime and theft involving violence
• Knife Crime: Stabbings and attacks with bladed weapons
• Gun Crime: Shootings and firearms-related injuries
• Acid Attacks: Chemical assault causing burns and disfigurement
• Terrorist Attacks: Injuries from terrorism-related incidents
• Historic Abuse: Historical sexual or physical abuse claims

CICA Compensation Tariff

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme operates on a tariff basis:

Minor Injuries (£1,000-£3,000):

• Facial scarring and minor cuts
• Bruising and soft tissue injuries
• Minor anxiety and stress reactions

Moderate Injuries (£3,000-£11,000):

• Fractured bones and dislocations
• Moderate scarring and disfigurement
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

Serious Injuries (£11,000-£27,000):

• Multiple fractures and serious wounds
• Loss of teeth or facial injuries
• Significant psychological trauma

Severe Injuries (£27,000-£500,000+):

• Permanent disability and disfigurement
• Brain injuries and spinal damage
• Loss of limbs or serious organ damage
• Severe mental health conditions

CICA Application Process

Eligibility Requirements:

• Crime reported to police (with some exceptions for historic cases)
• Incident occurred in England, Scotland, or Wales
• Applicant cooperated with police investigation
• No criminal convictions that would reduce award
• Application made within 2 years of incident (extensions possible)

Application Steps:

1. Initial Application: Complete CICA application form with medical evidence
2. Medical Assessment: Independent medical examination if required
3. Decision: CICA reviews application and makes initial decision
4. Review/Appeal: Challenge unfair decisions through review process
5. Tribunal: Independent tribunal hearing for disputed cases

Special Provisions for Vulnerable Victims

Children and Young People:

• Applications can be made by parents or guardians
• Extended time limits for historic abuse cases
• Special consideration for family violence
• Future care and support needs assessment

Sexual Offence Victims:

• No requirement to report to police in some circumstances
• Sensitive handling of intimate medical examinations
• Support for victims reluctant to engage with criminal justice
• Recognition of psychological impact and ongoing therapy needs

Lost Earnings and Special Expenses

Additional compensation available for:

• Loss of Earnings: If unable to work for more than 28 weeks
• Special Expenses: Cost of care, medical treatment, and adaptations
• Dependency Claims: For families of fatal crime victims
• Funeral Expenses: Reasonable burial and memorial costs

Why Choose SolicitorConnect for CICA Claims

• CICA Specialists: Extensive experience with criminal injuries compensation
• Victim Support: Sensitive handling of traumatic experiences
• No Win No Fee: Risk-free representation for CICA applications
• Appeal Expertise: Strong track record in challenging unfair decisions
• Medical Networks: Access to specialist medical experts and psychiatrists
• Tribunal Representation: Experienced advocacy at independent tribunals
• Complementary Claims: Pursuing civil claims alongside CICA compensation

CICA applications typically take 12-18 months to process, with complex cases potentially taking longer.

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified solicitor.