If you’ve recently been the victim of a crime involving violence, you may be entitled to compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme, administered by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). Great Britain established the first compensation scheme for victims of violent crime in 1964. The CICA operates similarly to personal injury claims, compensating victims for:
* Physical or mental injuries sustained as a result of a violent crime.
* Loss of earnings directly resulting from the injury.
* Bereavement suffered due to the death of a loved one from a violent crime.
Since 1996, the CICA has utilized a fixed tariff scheme, outlined in the Criminal Injuries Compensation Act 1995.
**Making a Claim**
To make a successful claim, you must demonstrate that you suffered physical or mental harm as a direct result of the violent crime. Importantly, you only need to prove the crime occurred; a criminal conviction is not required.
While you can obtain a claim form independently, consulting with a solicitor who specializes in criminal injury compensation claims is highly recommended. They can ensure your application is complete and accurately reflects the impact of the crime on your life. Processing a claim can take up to 18 months.
The minimum compensation award is £1,000, and the maximum is £250,000.
If you are dissatisfied with the initial compensation offer, you can request a review within 90 days. If the review outcome is still unsatisfactory, you can appeal to the CICA Panel within 30 days. If the Panel’s decision remains unacceptable, you have the right to appeal to the High Court.
**Alternatives to CICA**
Victims of violent crime should seek legal advice from a solicitor specializing in criminal injury as soon as possible. They can advise on alternative compensation options, such as civil actions for personal injury. If you lack the funds for a costly solicitor, explore options with “no win no fee” solicitors.
The CICA is one of the most established and highest-paying criminal injury compensation boards globally, handling over 80,000 cases annually and paying out £200 million in compensation.