Criminal Injury Claims in the UK
If you have suffered physical or psychological harm as an innocent victim of a violent crime in the UK, you may be entitled to make a criminal injury compensation claim. Victims of assault or other criminal incidents may be able to seek financial support through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).
Our experienced solicitors have supported many individuals in claiming criminal injuries compensation through the CICA scheme. This government-funded programme provides compensation to people who have been injured physically or mentally as a result of violent crime.
While it is possible to apply directly, many people choose professional legal support when making a criminal injury claim. At Emaari Legal, we guide clients through the process, helping them prepare a strong criminal injuries compensation claim and assisting with appeals if an application is initially rejected.
How Does the Criminal Injury Claim Process Work?
Making a criminal injury compensation claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) involves several steps. At Emaari Legal, we guide clients across the UK through the entire process to make claiming criminal injuries as straightforward as possible.
1. Initial Consultation
Contact us to discuss your situation. We will review your circumstances and advise whether your criminal injury claim has strong prospects of success under the CICA scheme.
2. Application Submission
Our team will prepare and submit the CICA application form on your behalf, ensuring all necessary details are included for your criminal injury compensation claim.
3. CICA Investigation
The CICA will then investigate the incident. This may include:
- Reviewing the police incident report
- Considering witness statements
- Examining your medical records
- Requesting additional information from you
- Assessing evidence of financial losses, such as loss of earnings
4. Decision and Compensation
Once the investigation is complete, the CICA will decide whether you qualify and determine the level of compensation you may receive.
Key Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a criminal injuries compensation claim, you generally must:
- Be an innocent victim and not have provoked or been involved in the crime
- Have reported the incident to the police as soon as possible
- Have been ordinarily resident in the UK at the time of the incident
- Cooperate fully with the CICA during the investigation
- Understand that a criminal record may reduce or prevent an award in some cases
Our experienced solicitors can help you understand these requirements and support you throughout the criminal injury compensation claim process.