What it is
a government-funded scheme that compensates people physically or mentally injured by a violent crime in England, Scotland or Wales.
Cost to apply
nothing. You can apply to the CICA directly without a solicitor.
Time limit
usually two years from the incident. Late applications are accepted only in exceptional circumstances, and the CICA treats them strictly. Special rules apply to people who were under 18 and to some historic abuse cases.
Police report
the crime must have been reported to the police. There does not need to be an arrest or a conviction.
How awards work
a published tariff sets a payment for each type of injury, up to a maximum of £500,000 in the most serious cases. Loss of earnings and special expenses are paid only where you have been unable to work, or only able to do limited work, for more than 28 weeks.
Timescales
the CICA aims to decide most claims within about a year, but many take longer, particularly where there is abuse, serious psychological injury or an appeal.
Who can apply?
You may be able to apply if you:
- Were injured in a violent crime, including assault, domestic abuse and sexual offences
- Suffered a mental injury, such as post-traumatic stress, because of a violent crime
- Were hurt while trying to prevent a crime or help a police officer
- Are a close relative of someone who died as a result of a violent crime
- Were a child at the time, including victims of abuse
You do not need to know who attacked you, and they do not need to have been convicted.
The rules that matter most
The scheme has strict conditions, and applications are refused when they are not met. The important ones are:
Report it to the police.
The crime must be reported as soon as reasonably practicable, and you must co-operate with the police and the CICA. You will normally need a police crime reference number.
Apply in time.
Two years is the standard limit. If you were a child at the time, or you reported historic abuse later in life, different dates may apply. For example, someone under 18 who reported the crime before they turned 18 generally has until their 20th birthday. We will check the dates for you.
Where you live.
You will usually need to have been ordinarily resident in the UK when it happened, with some exceptions.
Your conduct and record
Awards can be reduced or refused where your behaviour contributed to the incident, or where you have unspent criminal convictions.
Because every case is different, please speak to us as early as you can. We will tell you honestly whether we think you are likely to be eligible.
What can you receive?
The CICA works from a tariff that sets a fixed figure for each type of injury. Where you have been unable to work, or only able to do limited work, for more than 28 weeks, you may also be paid for lost earnings and special expenses such as care, equipment and adaptations. What you receive depends on the nature of your injuries and how long their effects last, and the CICA may wait to see how you recover before deciding.
How we can help
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Tell you honestly whether you are likely to qualify
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Help you gather the police, medical and other evidence you need
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Prepare and submit your application carefully, so it is right first time
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Deal with the CICA on your behalf, so you do not have to relive what happened
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Support you if the decision is wrong, including asking for a review and, if necessary, appealing to the tribunal. Strict deadlines apply, so contact us as soon as you receive a decision.
You are always free to apply yourself. Many people find the forms and the evidence stressful, and that is where we can take the load.
How our fees work for CICA applications
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Your claim in four simple steps
Talk to us
Call or complete the form for a free, no-obligation chat about what happened.
We assess your claim
We tell you honestly whether you have a strong case, and what to expect.
We build your case
We gather evidence, arrange medical reports and deal with the other side.
You receive your
compensation
We negotiate a fair settlement or take your case to court if needed.
Criminal injuries compensation: your questions answered
Do I have to report the crime to the police?
Usually three years from the date of the accident, or from when you realised your injury was linked to it. Different rules can apply to children and to people who lack mental capacity.
What if the person who hurt me was never found?
Usually three years from the date of the accident, or from when you realised your injury was linked to it. Different rules can apply to children and to people who lack mental capacity.
Does domestic abuse or sexual violence count?
Every case is different. It depends on the severity of your injury, your recovery and any financial losses.
How long will it take?
Every case is different. It depends on the severity of your injury, your recovery and any financial losses.
Will I have to talk about what happened?
Most claims settle without a court hearing. If yours does not, we will prepare you fully.
I was a child when it happened. Can I still apply?
You can claim for lost earnings, and we will help you gather the evidence.
Talk to a solicitor today
Tell us what happened. It costs nothing, there is no obligation, and we will call you back within 2 working hours.