Criminal Injury
We are solicitors helping victims of serious injury, assault and abuse claim compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme
This service is offered nationwide from our Bury, Prestwich and Pendlebury Offices.
What is Criminal Injury Compensation?
Criminal Injury Compensation is financial compensation that may be available to victims of violent crime through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Depending on the circumstances and the evidence available, you may be able to claim compensation for physical injuries, recognised psychological injuries, sexual abuse, domestic abuse, or fatal incidents, even if the offender was never convicted.
If you’ve been physically or psychologically injured by a violent crime or sexually abused in the last two years you could be entitled to compensation.
GLP Solicitors are one of the UK’s leading experts in Criminal Injuries Compensation Law and can operate on a no win, no fee basis.
Criminal injuries compensation law is a highly specialised area. Not all solicitors have experience in this field.
The necessary gathering of evidence and the way in which the claim is presented to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is all important. Equally, it is imperative to have an in depth knowledge of the workings of the scheme and the way in which the CICA will process and deal with the application. GLP has that knowledge and experience that will make a difference.
Ask us a question
Many thousands of claims are refused by the CICA each year due to the inadequate preparation by the applicant, and a lack of understanding of the Scheme. It is also likely that many people accept an award that is actually too low.
An expert understanding is needed to ensure that the claim is processed promptly and efficiently and that challenges are made where and when appropriate. Victims might be told that they do not need a solicitor but this is a complex Scheme with many pitfalls. GLP can guide and advise you through the criminal injury claim process.
Who can claim Criminal Injury Compensation?
You may qualify for compensation through the CICA if:
- you were injured as a result of a qualifying violent crime
- the incident was reported to the police
- the claim is made within the applicable time limits, or exceptional circumstances apply
- the injury happened in England, Scotland or Wales
- you suffered physical injury or a recognised psychological injury supported by medical evidence
Eligibility will always depend on the requirements of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme and the evidence available.
What does “CICA” stand for?
“CICA” stands for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, which is a governmental body in the UK responsible for compensating victims of violent crimes.
Operated by the Ministry of Justice, the CICA aims to provide financial compensation to individuals who have suffered physical or psychological harm due to violent acts when they are unable to seek compensation from other sources, such as the perpetrator directly.
Compensation awards of up to £500,000 can be achieved
The CICA Scheme
We hear how the lives of many innocent adults and children have been drastically affected or seriously disrupted, when they are the victims of crimes of violence and abuse.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme is a government program designed to provide some financial compensation to victims of violent crimes. The Scheme aims to offer some financial relief to those who have suffered physical or psychological injuries because of criminal acts, when there is no other route to compensation.
How does a CICA Claim work?
The process usually involves:
- Reporting the crime to the police
- Gathering medical and supporting evidence
- Submitting the CICA application
- Review of police records and medical evidence by the CICA
- Receiving a compensation decision
- Requesting a review or appeal if the claim is refused or the award is considered too low
Why are some CICA claims refused?
Criminal injury compensation claims may be refused for several reasons, including:
- the incident was not reported to the police
- there is insufficient evidence to support the claim
- the application was made outside the relevant time limits without exceptional circumstances
- the applicant did not cooperate with the investigation or application process
- the injury does not meet the requirements of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme
These are the types of claim
covered by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme:
Sexual Abuse Claims
GLP Solicitors have established themselves as one of the leading law firms advocating for victims of sexual abuse, offering exceptional legal representation and support during some of the most challenging periods in our clients’ lives.
Sexual Assault Claims
GLP Solicitors have earned a reputation as one of the foremost law firms in advocating for victims of sexual assault, providing unparalleled legal representation and support during some of the most challenging times in our clients’ lives.
Rape Compensation
GLP Solicitors specialises in handling claims related to rape, a deeply sensitive and complex area of law where the emotional impact on survivors is profound.
Shaken Baby Syndrome
GLP Solicitors is renowned for its expertise in handling claims related to shaken baby syndrome, an area where the stakes are exceptionally high, and the emotional toll on families is profound.
Brain Injury Compensation
GLP Solicitors have established themselves as one of the most prominent law firms in handling head injury compensation claims due to their extensive experience and specialised expertise in this complex area of law.
Mental Injury
Our team of specialised lawyers possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges associated with mental health claims, ranging from psychological trauma due to accidents or assaults to workplace-related stress and PTSD.
Fatal Claims
Yes, you can potentially claim compensation for fatal injuries under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme. The CICA recognises the devastating impact that fatal injuries can have on victims’ families and provides compensation to eligible individuals who have lost a loved one as a result of a violent crime.
Domestic Violence Claims
The CICA scrutinises domestic violence and abuse claims meticulously, assessing each incident and considering whether it forms part of a broader pattern of abuse over time. They also evaluate the victim’s cooperation with the police during the investigation process.
Physical Injury Claims
GLP Solicitors demonstrate an unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of those affected by physical injuries and assaults, solidifying our position as leaders in this critical field of law.
Can I claim if…?
Can I claim criminal injury compensation without a conviction?
Yes. You may still be eligible to claim compensation through the CICA even if the offender was never convicted, charged or identified, provided the incident was reported to the police and there is sufficient evidence to support the application. Eligibility will depend on the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme criteria and the evidence available.
Can I claim compensation for domestic abuse?
Yes. Victims of domestic abuse may be able to claim criminal injury compensation through the CICA where there has been a qualifying crime of violence that resulted in physical injury or a recognised psychological injury. Eligibility will depend on the circumstances of the case and the available evidence.
Can I claim for PTSD after a violent crime?
Yes. Recognised psychiatric or psychological injuries, including PTSD, anxiety disorders or depression, may qualify for criminal injury compensation where they result from a violent crime and are supported by appropriate medical evidence.
Can children make CICA claims?
Yes. Children who were victims of violent crime or abuse may be entitled to criminal injury compensation. In most cases, a parent, guardian or responsible adult can make the application on the child’s behalf.
Can I claim for historic sexual abuse?
Yes. Compensation may still be available for historic sexual abuse, even where the abuse occurred many years ago. The CICA may consider late applications in certain circumstances, particularly where there are good reasons why the application could not reasonably have been made earlier.
Can I appeal a rejected CICA Claim?
Yes. You may be able to request a review or appeal if your criminal injury compensation claim was refused or if you believe the compensation awarded was too low.
How much compensation can I receive from CICA?
Compensation amounts vary depending on the type of injury, its severity and the long-term impact on your life. In some cases, additional payments may also be available for loss of earnings or special expenses. The maximum award available under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme is £500,000.
What evidence does CICA require?
The CICA will usually require supporting evidence such as police reports, medical records, psychological assessments or other documentation showing that a qualifying violent crime occurred and caused the injuries claimed.
Frequently Asked Questions – Criminal Injury Compensation Claims
Anyone who has been physically or psychologically injured as a direct result of a violent crime in the UK can make a claim, provided they meet certain eligibility criteria, such as reporting the crime to the police.
Yes. You must report the incident to the police as soon as possible. CICA will only consider claims where the crime has been reported and fully cooperated with during the investigation.
You generally have two years from the date of the incident to make a claim, although exceptions may apply for children or cases involving exceptional circumstances.
You can claim for both physical injuries (such as broken bones, scarring, or burns) and psychological trauma (such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression) caused by the crime.
The amount depends on the nature and severity of your injuries. CICA awards range from £1,000 to £500,000, based on a fixed tariff system. You may also receive additional payments for loss of earnings or special expenses.
Yes. You can still make a CICA claim even if the person responsible was never identified, arrested, or convicted, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.
While you can apply directly, working with experienced solicitors like GLP Solicitors ensures your claim is properly presented, all evidence is gathered, and you receive the maximum possible compensation.
Most claims take between 12 to 18 months to process, depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of medical evidence. GLP Solicitors help speed up the process wherever possible.
At GLP Solicitors, we specialise in helping victims of violent crime navigate the CICA process. We handle everything from gathering evidence and submitting the claim to appealing unfair decisions — ensuring you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Criminal Injury Compensation – Key Facts
- Claims are made through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)
- Compensation may still be available even where there has been no conviction
- Physical injuries and recognised psychological injuries may qualify
- Most applications should normally be made within 2 years, although exceptions may apply in some circumstances
- The maximum compensation award available under the Scheme is £500,000
