Criminal Assault Compensation Claims

Our specialist personal injury solicitors deal with applications to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority using the no win no fee scheme. Our solicitors only get paid if you get paid and if the application for criminal assault compensation is not unsuccessful you will not be charged. For free advice without obligation just call the helpline or send the contact form.

Q. Am I allowed to look at the medical report and other written evidence?

A . After the final decision is given, the majority of the written evidence considered by the CICA is made available for review. The Police Report however remains confidential.

Q. How long does it take for a criminal assault compensation claim to be resolved?

A. The average time taken by the CICA to settle a criminal assault compensation claim is 8 months. Each case is different and the length may vary depending on the circumstances.

Q. Can I ask that my case be reconsidered after the CICA makes its initial decision?

A. Yes. You can apply for a review of you criminal assault compensation claim using the forms that come with the written notice of the initial decision. The review will be carried out by a more senior CICA staff member.

Q. Should I be aware of any limitations on time as to when I can request for a review?

A. There is a standard 90 day limitation starting from the release of the initial decision for you to request a review. However, CICA has the prerogative to extend the limitation in exceptional cases if it is in the interest of justice to do so.

Q. Is it possible to make another appeal if the senior officer’s decision is unsatisfactory?

A. Yes. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeals Panel (CICAP) has been set up independently of the CICA to handle criminal assault compensation appeals. You can find the appeal form together with a guide on how to proceed with the appeal with the written review decision.

Q. May I turn in my own medical evidence?

A. The CICA reviews all relevant medical evidence during the investigations. However, they will not pay for any unsolicited evidence.

Q. Can I make a claim for someone killed because of a crime?

A. Yes, but only if you are a parent, the spouse, a civil partner, a child, or a dependent of the victim.

Q. Are funeral expenses covered by the scheme?

A. The CICA covers funeral expenses up to a reasonable amount even if the person who initially paid for the funeral is not a dependent of the deceased.

Q. When will I receive my compensation?

A. Due to external factors, the time may vary but the rule of thumb is that the CICA sends out cheques within 4 weeks of the decision.