Criminal Injury Compensation Claim

If you have been a victim of a violent crime you will know that it is a harrowing ordeal, the physiological effects of which can often remain with a victim for years after the incident took place.

But a lot of people fail to realise is that they may be entitled to make a criminal injury compensation claim, regardless of whether their assailant was caught or not.

The government funded body known as The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is tasked with administering the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in England, Scotland and Wales.

CICA

The CICA doesn't pay for the cost of legal advice and seeking it remains advisable. It is always helpful to receive expert legal advice, and making a criminal injury compensation claims can become complex... that's why we're here to help!

Below is some information that will help you decide whether or not you are eligible for a claim. If you think you are might entitled to a Criminal Injury Compensation Claim then do not hesitate to contact us...

How do I know if I am eligible to make a claim?

You may be eligible if:

• you were injured in an act of violence (remember it does not always matter whether or not the offender was caught or convicted)
• you made your application within two years of the incident taking place (although applications are still considered in some cases where it may not have been possible to make a claim within this period of time)

Are there any factors that would mean I cannot make a claim?

Yes there are some. You will not be eligible to make a claim if:

• the incident took place before 1st August 1964
• you have already applied for compensation elsewhere for the same injury
• the incident occurred before 1st October 1979 and you were living in the same residence
• the act of violence took place somewhere other than in England, Wales or Scotland

Are there any other factors that may mean I would be refused compensation?

Yes. Your claim may also be disregarded because of:

• your criminal record
• your failure to corporate with police
• a delay in informing the relevant authorities of the incident
• your behaviour before, during or after the violent incident

So I think I might be eligible, what the types of compensation available to me?

If you have been injured as the result of a violent crime committed against you and you match all the above mentioned criteria, there are four different types of compensation you can apply for. These are:

• Compensation for injuries (including sexual offences)
• Compensation because a loved one has died (as the result of a violent crime)
• Compensation for loss of earnings
• Special expenses

Violent crime can tear people apart and make your life a misery afterwards. If you have been the victim of violent crime, then don't suffer in silence. Our experts at Legal Request are trained in dealing with a variety of sensitive cases, so give us a call now and we can help you claim back what is rightfully yours and help you begin to rebuild your life.

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