Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone)

Claim Criminal Injuries Compensation For Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone)

A fractured tibia — commonly referred to as a broken shin bone — is one of the most severe types of lower limb injuries and can dramatically affect a person’s ability to walk, work, and maintain daily independence. As the main load-bearing bone in the lower leg, the tibia is crucial to mobility. When it breaks due to a violent crime, the effects often extend well beyond the physical pain. Victims frequently experience emotional distress, long-term rehabilitation, and serious financial pressures.

Violent crimes that lead to tibia fractures may include brutal assaults involving weapons, repeated domestic abuse targeting the legs, or being deliberately struck by a vehicle. These events can cause high-impact trauma to the shin bone, requiring surgery, casting, or months of physiotherapy. In many cases, victims may also be left with permanent weakness, chronic pain, or visible scarring. If your tibia was fractured during a criminal attack, you may be eligible for a compensation award under the CICA scheme.

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Understanding the Injury: Common Causes For Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone)

The tibia is the strongest and most prominent bone in the lower leg, responsible for supporting a significant portion of the body’s weight during walking, running, and standing. Because of its location and role, it is particularly vulnerable to traumatic injuries when subjected to forceful impact. In violent crime scenarios, the tibia can be fractured through targeted or incidental attacks, often leading to severe pain, mobility limitations, and extended periods of rehabilitation. Common criminal scenarios that may cause tibia fractures include:

  • Blunt force assaults: Incidents involving direct strikes to the leg using hard objects like metal rods, bats, or bricks. The shinbone absorbs the full force of the blow, often resulting in breaks.
  • Kicks or stamping injuries: During street fights, gang violence, or domestic altercations, perpetrators may intentionally kick or stamp on the legs, causing fractures.
  • Deliberate vehicle impact: Criminal acts involving intentional collisions with pedestrians, often seen in hit-and-run attacks or targeted vehicle assaults.
  • Armed confrontations or muggings: Victims pushed to the ground or hit with weapons during robberies or brawls may suffer tibia fractures from the fall or impact.
  • Domestic abuse incidents: Repeated lower limb targeting during abuse episodes can eventually lead to tibial damage, especially when the attacker applies consistent pressure or uses objects to inflict harm.

These injuries are not only physically debilitating but also emotionally traumatic. Victims often need surgery, assistive devices, and ongoing care, making it essential to pursue compensation and support through the appropriate legal and medical channels.

Eligibility Criteria to Make a CICA Claim for Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone)

To be eligible for compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme, your fractured tibia must be a direct result of a deliberate act of violence. The CICA operates under strict eligibility guidelines designed to ensure only legitimate victims of violent crime are compensated. It’s essential that claimants understand these requirements fully to avoid unnecessary delays or rejection of their claim. Eligibility criteria for a CICA tibia fracture claim include:

  • Location of the crime: The incident must have taken place within England, Scotland, or Wales.
  • Nature of the act: The injury must have been sustained through a criminal assault or violent act, such as being kicked, stamped on, or deliberately struck by a vehicle.
  • Timely reporting: The crime must be reported to the police without unreasonable delay. Delayed reporting could negatively affect your eligibility unless you can provide a valid reason.
  • Full cooperation: You must assist the police and cooperate fully with any investigations or legal proceedings related to the offence.
  • Application timeframe: Your claim should be submitted within two years of the incident. CICA may consider exceptions if there are compelling circumstances, such as trauma or mental health challenges.
  • No contribution to the crime: If you provoked or participated in the violent incident, your claim may be reduced or denied.
  • Criminal record checks: Applicants with unspent serious criminal convictions may have their awards reduced or refused, depending on the offence.

Supporting your application with accurate and thorough documentation — such as medical records, crime reference numbers, witness statements, and personal accounts — is crucial. Fractured tibia injuries are typically severe enough to meet CICA’s threshold for physical injury compensation, but proving the connection between the crime and the injury is key to a successful claim.

How Much Compensation You Can Receive for Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone)

Our cica claim calculator in the main menu will help you with estimating the potential compensation that may be paid in respect to your claim. However, be aware that figures do vary considerably depending upon the nature (severity) of the injury and the impact on your daily life, period of suffering and whether any mental harm has been caused.

CICA determines compensation awards based on a structured tariff system, which categorises injuries according to severity, long-term impact, and recovery outlook. The more serious and disabling the tibia fracture, the higher the award under this scheme. Factors such as whether one or both legs were injured, the need for surgical intervention, and the degree of permanent disability will influence the total compensation.

Current CICA tariff awards for fractured tibia (shin bone) injuries include:

  • £1,800 – For a fracture in one tibia that results in substantial recovery, where the injury heals well without major long-term effects.
  • £4,600 – For a single tibia fracture that causes continuing significant disability, such as chronic pain, difficulty walking, or reliance on mobility aids.
  • £3,500 – For fractures affecting both tibias with substantial recovery, where the individual regains most function but may still require limited support.
  • £11,000 – For fractures in both legs that lead to ongoing and serious limitations, such as restricted mobility, long-term use of assistive devices, or inability to return to physical work.

These awards reflect the level of physical and functional impairment sustained and aim to financially support the victim through recovery. Providing clear medical records, surgical documentation, and rehabilitation assessments can help ensure you receive compensation at the correct tariff level.

Additional Compensation Available for Tibia Fracture Claims

If your fractured tibia has led to additional physical, psychological, or financial burdens beyond the initial injury, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) may offer supplementary compensation. These additional awards are designed to cover specific, verifiable losses that are directly linked to the violent incident and the resulting injury. Additional compensation through CICA may cover:

  • Psychological or emotional trauma: If you’ve been formally diagnosed with a mental health condition like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression related to the attack, you may be eligible for a separate mental injury award.
  • Loss of earnings: If your tibia fracture left you unable to work for a continuous period of 28 weeks or more, and you can provide evidence of your previous income and employment status, CICA may compensate you for lost wages.
  • Special expenses and financial losses: These are unreimbursed costs that arise directly from your injury and are not covered by public services like the NHS. Eligible expenses include:
    • Purchase or rental of mobility aids, such as crutches, orthopaedic braces, or wheelchairs
    • Transportation costs for attending hospitals, physiotherapy, or follow-up medical appointments
    • Professional caregiving services during your recovery, including personal assistance with hygiene, cooking, and household tasks
    • Necessary adaptations to your home environment, such as installing ramps, grab bars, or stairlifts

To qualify for these additional awards, all expenses must be supported with strong documentation—such as original receipts, medical prescriptions, referral letters, or confirmation from healthcare professionals. Including these records with your claim can help ensure you receive full compensation for the wider impact of your tibia fracture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) For Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone)

Yes, you may be eligible for compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) if you fractured your tibia—the main bone in your lower leg—as a direct result of a violent crime in England, Scotland, or Wales. Tibial fractures are often caused by forceful trauma, such as being kicked, struck with an object, pushed with force, or involved in a fall triggered by an assault. These types of injuries can significantly affect your ability to walk, perform routine tasks, or return to work. To make a valid claim, you must report the crime to the police promptly, cooperate fully with the investigation, and provide medical records that clearly show the injury was caused by the criminal act.
CICA offers compensation through a set tariff system. For fractured tibia injuries, the current compensation rates are:

  • £1,800 for one leg with substantial recovery
  • £4,600 for one leg with continuing significant disability
  • £3,500 for both legs with substantial recovery
  • £11,000 for both legs with continuing significant disability
  • These fixed awards are based on both the number of legs affected and the degree of lasting impairment. If your tibia fracture leads to long-term limitations, your compensation may be significantly higher.
Substantial recovery refers to cases where the tibia fracture heals well, with the individual regaining most or all functional movement. Minor residual symptoms such as mild stiffness or occasional pain may be present, but they do not significantly limit day-to-day activities. If you can walk normally, return to your job, and manage without ongoing treatment, you likely fall into this category. A GP or orthopaedic specialist must confirm in your medical records that there is no significant ongoing disability.
This applies to cases where the tibia fracture leads to long-term or permanent impairments. Examples of continuing significant disability include:

  • Chronic leg pain or sensitivity
  • Restricted movement or joint stiffness
  • Difficulty walking long distances
  • Reliance on walking aids such as crutches
  • Inability to return to physical employment
  • Regular need for physiotherapy or pain management
  • You must have medical evidence showing these limitations are ongoing and that they meaningfully impact your mobility and daily quality of life.
No. You do not need to have undergone surgery to receive CICA compensation. Many tibia fractures are treated non-surgically with immobilisation and physiotherapy. CICA focuses on how the injury affects your long-term function, not on whether you had surgical treatment. However, if you did have surgery and it resulted in complications or an extended recovery, that may support a claim for a higher-tier award.
Yes, you can absolutely still claim if only one leg was affected. CICA distinguishes between injuries to one or both legs, and the compensation reflects this. For one leg, a substantial recovery attracts £1,800 while a continuing disability can be awarded £4,600. Ensure your claim is supported by clear medical documentation that outlines the affected side and the current status of your recovery.
Yes, suffering fractures in both tibias at once is more serious and results in higher compensation. The fixed tariff for such cases is:

  • £3,500 if you made a substantial recovery in both legs
  • £11,000 if you experience continuing disability in both legs
  • To qualify for these higher awards, your evidence must show that both legs were injured and detail the extent to which mobility, independence, or overall function has been affected.
To make your claim strong, you should include:

  • Hospital admission records
  • Emergency department notes and X-ray/CT scan results
  • Surgical or orthopaedic specialist letters
  • Discharge summaries and rehabilitation plans
  • Physiotherapy reports showing progress or ongoing needs
  • Statements from your GP about your long-term condition
  • The clearer and more detailed your medical records, the easier it will be for CICA to determine the correct level of compensation.
Yes, if the injury or the traumatic incident that caused it led to psychological effects, you may also claim for mental health injuries. Common examples include:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Anxiety, panic attacks, or sleep disturbance
  • Depression or emotional withdrawal
  • To be eligible, you need a formal diagnosis from a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist. You must also show that the psychological harm is directly connected to the incident. Counselling notes, GP referrals, and treatment records can strengthen this part of your claim.
While the CICA tariff does not provide different rates based on limb dominance, the functional impact of losing strength or control in your dominant leg can be significant. If the injury prevents you from working in a physically demanding job, driving, or caring for yourself, these effects may support claims for loss of earnings, special expenses, or psychological injury. Make sure to describe how the dominant-side injury has altered your day-to-day capabilities.
Yes. CICA recognises the bravery of individuals who were harmed while protecting others. If you were injured during an attempt to stop a violent act or help someone in danger, you remain eligible for compensation—as long as your actions were reasonable and not provocative. To support your claim, include:

  • Police reports confirming your involvement
  • Witness statements
  • Any commendations or supporting letters from authorities
  • These can show that your injury occurred in a selfless context, which CICA views favourably.
If you had an existing leg condition or prior injury, you may still qualify for compensation if the crime aggravated your condition. For example, if the violent incident led to a new fracture or worsened a previously healed injury, CICA can take this into account. Provide:

  • Medical records showing your condition before and after the crime
  • GP or specialist assessments outlining the added impairment
  • While your award might be adjusted, you can still receive compensation for the increased damage and impact.
Yes. You do not need the offender to be identified, charged, or convicted. CICA assesses your eligibility based on whether a violent crime took place, not the outcome of any criminal proceedings. To qualify:

  • You must report the crime to the police promptly
  • Cooperate with the investigation fully
  • Provide consistent medical evidence of the injury
  • Claims are judged on the balance of probabilities rather than proof beyond a reasonable doubt.
Yes, CICA allows for special expenses in addition to the injury tariff. You may be able to claim costs that directly resulted from the injury, such as:

  • Crutches or mobility aids
  • Travel costs to hospital and therapy appointments
  • Paid care or household assistance
  • Home modifications like handrails or step-free access
  • To be eligible, expenses must be necessary, injury-related, and not provided for free by public services. Keep all receipts and ask your healthcare provider to confirm the need for these services.
If you were employed or self-employed and your tibia fracture left you unable to work for 28 or more consecutive weeks, you can apply for loss of earnings. This is available if:

  • You can provide medical proof of incapacity to work
  • You were working prior to the injury
  • You include payslips, P60s, or tax returns
  • CICA pays loss of earnings at a set statutory rate, unless exceptional loss is proven. A detailed statement from your employer or accountant can help support this part of your claim.
Yes. If you were under 18 at the time of the injury, you are entitled to apply for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). A parent, guardian, or legal representative can apply on your behalf while you’re still a minor. If no claim was submitted, you can still apply independently up to your 20th birthday. In circumstances where trauma, fear, or abuse delayed the reporting or awareness of the injury, CICA may extend the application window, especially when supported by counselling records, GP letters, or safeguarding documents.
Typically, you must apply within two years of the incident. This two-year window allows victims of violent crime to gather necessary evidence and documentation. However, for individuals who were under 18 at the time of the incident, the deadline is extended until their 20th birthday. In some cases—such as delayed psychological recognition, suppressed memory due to trauma, or barriers to reporting—the CICA may consider late claims if strong supporting evidence is provided to justify the delay.
No. Receiving medical care via the NHS has no negative impact on the compensation you can receive. CICA awards are based on the severity and impact of your injury, not on how or where you received treatment. Whether you underwent surgery, physiotherapy, or rehabilitation in an NHS hospital or clinic, your eligibility remains the same. However, if you paid out-of-pocket for private medical care or additional support services not offered by the NHS, you may be able to recover those costs as part of a special expenses claim.
Yes. Special expenses allow you to claim for financial costs you’ve incurred due to your injury, provided they are necessary and directly related to your tibia fracture. Eligible costs include:

  • Medical equipment such as crutches, walking boots, or braces
  • Transport to hospitals, clinics, or physiotherapy sessions
  • Home adaptations like stair aids or bathroom modifications
  • Professional or personal help with cooking, cleaning, or mobility
  • You must retain receipts and provide medical confirmation that the items or services were essential to your recovery.
If your fractured tibia prevents you from working for 28 consecutive weeks or more, and you were employed or self-employed before the incident, you may be eligible for a loss of earnings award. To apply, you will need:

  • A medical report confirming your inability to work
  • Documentation from your employer detailing your job role, absence, and salary
  • Payslips, P60s, or tax returns (especially for self-employed individuals)
  • Loss of earnings is generally paid at a fixed rate by CICA unless you can demonstrate exceptional financial impact with supporting documentation.
Yes. If you required care or assistance during your recovery from a fractured tibia, CICA allows you to claim for both paid and unpaid support under special expenses. This can include:

  • Personal care (bathing, dressing, toileting)
  • Help with meal preparation, cleaning, and shopping
  • Support from relatives or professional carers
  • You should provide statements from those who provided care and medical evidence confirming your need for support during the recovery period.
Yes. CICA does not require a conviction or even an arrest for you to qualify for compensation. As long as you reported the incident to the police promptly and cooperated fully with the investigation, your application may still be approved. CICA bases its decisions on the balance of probabilities—meaning that it must be more likely than not that the crime occurred and caused your injury. Police reports, victim statements, and medical evidence are key in demonstrating the validity of your claim.
No. Legal representation is not mandatory. Many applicants complete their CICA application successfully without using a solicitor. That said, if your claim is complex—such as involving multiple injuries, missed deadlines, or psychological harm—getting advice from a solicitor or support organisation like Victim Support or Citizens Advice can be helpful. If you choose to use a solicitor, make sure you understand their fee structure in advance, as some work on a percentage basis.
Yes. If the trauma of the incident or the aftermath of the injury caused you to experience psychological symptoms—such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—you may be eligible for an additional award. You must have:

  • A formal diagnosis from a mental health specialist (psychologist or psychiatrist)
  • A treatment history (therapy, medication, counselling)
  • Documentation linking your psychological condition directly to the crime or injury
  • Psychological injuries are assessed separately and can significantly increase the total compensation awarded.
To ensure a strong, well-supported CICA claim for a fractured tibia:

  • Report the crime to the police as soon as possible and obtain a crime reference number
  • Attend all medical and therapy appointments and follow treatment advice
  • Keep thorough records including medical reports, X-rays, CT scans, and physiotherapy notes
  • Document your recovery process with a diary, detailing pain levels, mobility challenges, and emotional impacts
  • Retain all receipts related to special expenses such as transport, aids, or care services
  • Request supporting statements from healthcare professionals, your employer, or carers that outline how your life has been affected

A well-documented claim with clear evidence of the crime, injury, and its impact on your daily life will increase your chances of receiving fair and appropriate compensation under the CICA scheme.

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Helping Victims of Violent Crimes To Recover Compensation From CICA

Understanding Different Types of Fractured Tibia (Shin Bone) and Their Consequences

Tibia fractures can differ greatly in severity, with each type affecting mobility and daily function in different ways. When these injuries are the result of a violent criminal act—such as a targeted assault or a deliberate hit-and-run—they often involve high-impact force that damages bone, soft tissue, and surrounding structures. Because the tibia is the primary load-bearing bone in the lower leg, any disruption can have serious consequences for walking, stability, and long-term joint health. Tibia fractures commonly linked to criminal injury cases include:

  • Stable (non-displaced) fractures: A clean break where the bone remains aligned. Though less severe, these still require immobilisation, rest, and follow-up care.
  • Displaced fractures: In these cases, the bone breaks and shifts out of place. Realignment typically involves surgery using internal fixation such as rods, screws, or plates.
  • Comminuted fractures: The bone is shattered into multiple fragments due to a violent impact—often associated with blunt weapon attacks or vehicular assaults. Recovery is complex and usually prolonged.
  • Open (compound) fractures: When the broken tibia punctures the skin, it poses a significant risk of infection and tissue damage. Immediate emergency surgery and extended recovery time are usually necessary.
  • Segmental fractures: Characterised by two or more distinct fractures in the tibia, creating a free-floating segment of bone. These are rare but serious and often require multiple surgeries and intensive rehabilitation.

Each type of tibial fracture comes with its own set of challenges. Victims may need long-term physical therapy, surgical follow-ups, and mobility aids such as crutches or orthotics. Severe cases can lead to permanent limitations such as joint stiffness, chronic pain, or osteoarthritis, making early diagnosis, comprehensive treatment, and proper documentation essential—not just for recovery, but also for maximising a successful CICA compensation claim.

Gathering Evidence for Your CICA Tibia Fracture Claim

Submitting a compelling claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for a fractured tibia requires strong, credible documentation that clearly links the injury to a specific violent act. The success of your application depends not only on proving that a crime occurred, but also on thoroughly demonstrating how the incident and resulting fracture have affected your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing. Essential evidence to include in your CICA claim:

  • Police report and crime reference number: Confirms that the incident was officially reported as a violent offence and provides a foundation for your claim.
  • Hospital and emergency room records: These should detail your diagnosis, imaging results (such as X-rays or MRIs), treatment plans, and any surgeries performed.
  • Ongoing medical documentation: Evidence from physiotherapy, general practitioners (GPs), or pain specialists showing the continuity of care and long-term treatment.
  • Mental health records: If you’ve developed psychological issues as a result of the incident, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression, include formal assessments and care plans from licensed professionals.
  • Personal statement: A detailed, written explanation describing how the fracture has altered your daily routine, career, mobility, and independence. Be as specific as possible.
  • Letters from third parties: Statements from employers, family members, or healthcare providers can help reinforce the impact the injury has had on your work, relationships, and lifestyle.

Organising your evidence in a clear, chronological order and ensuring it is up-to-date will strengthen your case. Well-documented claims are more likely to be approved and assessed at the correct compensation level according to CICA’s guidelines.

Special Expenses and Financial Losses You Can Claim For Fractured Tibia

In addition to the core injury compensation, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) also allows claimants to seek reimbursement for various financial losses directly tied to their injury. These additional expenses can quickly mount up and often represent a significant part of the overall impact the injury has on a person’s life. Especially in cases of serious fractures like a broken tibia, these out-of-pocket costs may include essential items or services that are not covered by the NHS or other public schemes.

Under the CICA scheme, you may be eligible to claim compensation for the following special expenses:

  • Mobility equipment and support devices: This includes crutches, walkers, orthotic supports, custom braces, or wheelchairs needed during recovery or for longer-term use.
  • Travel-related expenses: If your treatment or rehabilitation requires regular hospital visits, trips to a physiotherapist, or other health-related appointments, you may be able to claim for mileage, public transport fares, or taxi costs.
  • Paid personal care or home assistance: If you were unable to perform essential tasks like dressing, bathing, or cooking during your recovery, and had to rely on professional carers or paid domestic support, these costs can be included.
  • Loss of earnings compensation: Should your injury prevent you from working for at least 28 consecutive weeks, you may be entitled to claim lost income, provided you can supply payslips, a P60, or proof of earnings.
  • Private treatment and therapy: If necessary services like counselling or physiotherapy were not accessible through the NHS or were significantly delayed, private treatment expenses may be reimbursed with the right documentation.

To ensure a smooth claim process, it’s essential to retain all receipts, referral letters, medical prescriptions, invoices, and any relevant documentation proving the necessity and cost of these expenses. A strong paper trail will support your case and help CICA accurately assess the additional financial impact of your fractured tibia.

Psychological and Emotional Impact of a Tibia Fracture

The psychological burden of suffering a fractured tibia due to a violent crime often lingers long after the physical injury begins to heal. While the physical damage can limit movement and cause pain, the emotional impact may disrupt every part of a victim’s life—from their mental health and relationships to confidence and career aspirations. This invisible trauma can significantly delay recovery and make day-to-day life increasingly challenging.

Emotional and mental health effects of a fractured tibia following criminal violence can include:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Often triggered by the violent event, PTSD symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, or strong anxiety when reminded of the attack.
  • Clinical depression or generalised anxiety: Pain, reduced independence, and inability to return to work or social activities can lead to persistent low mood, hopelessness, or worry.
  • Anger, irritability, or mood swings: Feelings of helplessness and frustration due to loss of physical freedom and reliance on others can impact emotional stability.
  • Social withdrawal and loneliness: Individuals may avoid leaving their homes or participating in activities, especially if mobility aids or physical limitations make them feel vulnerable.
  • Negative body image and reduced self-confidence: Scarring, limping, or visible use of mobility equipment may cause embarrassment, especially among younger victims or those in public-facing roles.

To be eligible for a mental injury award under the CICA scheme, you must submit clear evidence—typically in the form of a formal diagnosis and a treatment plan from a registered psychologist or psychiatrist. This helps establish a direct connection between the violent act and your mental health difficulties, strengthening your claim and supporting the full extent of your compensation.

Long-Term Recovery and Lifestyle Adjustments After a Tibia Fracture

The consequences of a fractured tibia often go well beyond the expected healing timeline. While some individuals may regain function over time, many victims of violent crime continue to experience chronic complications that limit mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. These challenges may affect not only physical health but also your mental wellbeing, family responsibilities, and ability to maintain employment.

CICA will assess several long-term impacts when determining the appropriate compensation for your tibia fracture, including:

  • Persistent pain, muscle stiffness, or nerve-related discomfort in the lower leg, which can severely hinder prolonged walking, standing, or weight-bearing activities. These symptoms often require daily pain management and can lead to chronic fatigue.
  • Dependence on mobility supports such as walking aids, leg braces, or custom orthopaedic footwear, which may become necessary for extended periods or even permanently to prevent further injury and ensure balance.
  • Inability to return to previous job roles that involve manual labour, standing for extended hours, or frequent movement—resulting in the need to retrain, change careers, or in some cases, exit the workforce entirely.
  • Continued reliance on rehabilitative therapies, including physiotherapy, massage therapy, or surgical interventions to address complications like misalignment, limited joint flexibility, or tibial nonunion (where the fracture fails to heal properly).
  • Substantial difficulty with everyday functional tasks—such as grocery shopping, cleaning, parenting duties, and using public transport—which may require support from carers or household modifications to adapt to new physical limitations.

To strengthen your CICA claim, it’s crucial to include documentation that outlines the lasting effects of your injury. Reports from orthopaedic specialists, occupational therapists, and future care planners can help illustrate the depth of your physical limitations. These documents show CICA that your fractured tibia has resulted in long-term hardship and justify an award that reflects the severity and permanence of your condition.

Additional Losses You Can Claim

Loss of Earnings – If your injury caused you to be unable to work for more than 28 weeks, you may be eligible for compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) for lost earnings. To qualify, you must be able to demonstrate that you had a consistent and regular income before the injury. This could include proof of full-time employment, self-employment, or any other verifiable source of income. CICA will consider your pre-injury income levels to calculate the compensation. This can be especially crucial if the injury significantly impacted your financial stability and your ability to support yourself or your family.

Psychological Trauma – If your injury led to psychological trauma such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety, you may be entitled to additional compensation. These mental health conditions can have a long-term impact on your well-being, and CICA recognises the importance of supporting victims of crime with emotional and psychological support. To qualify for compensation for psychological trauma, you will need to provide medical evidence of the diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional. The severity of your condition and the impact on your daily life will be taken into account when determining the amount of compensation.

Special Expenses – If your injury results in additional needs, such as mobility aids or home adaptations, CICA may compensate you for these “special expenses.” However, there is an important criterion: you must have been unable to work for at least 28 weeks as a result of your injury. This compensation is meant to help cover the costs of any special equipment or alterations to your living space that are necessary for you to maintain a reasonable quality of life after the injury. This can include items like wheelchairs, prosthetics, home modifications (such as ramps or stairlifts), or any other equipment that helps you with mobility or daily activities. The claim must be substantiated by proof of these expenses and how they relate to your injury.

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Increasing the Chances of a Successful CICA Claim

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To improve your chances of receiving the highest possible CICA compensation, follow these essential steps:

  • Report the Crime Immediately – Delays in reporting the crime can weaken your claim, so notify the police as soon as possible. If there is a valid reason for a delay, such as being medically incapacitated or facing threats from the perpetrator, you must provide evidence to support your explanation.
  • Provide Strong Medical Evidence – Ensure all medical reports, X-rays, and surgical records clearly detail your injury, the severity of the fracture, and its long-term effects. A medical professional’s prognosis regarding mobility limitations, future treatments, and rehabilitation needs can strengthen your claim.
  • Keep Financial Records and Document Expenses – If you have lost earnings or incurred medical expenses due to your injury, retain all relevant documentation. You may be able to claim special expenses for:
    • Loss of income due to inability to work;
    • Mobility aids such as crutches or wheelchairs;
    • Home modifications (e.g., stairlifts or handrails);
    • Ongoing physiotherapy or rehabilitation costs;
    • Travel costs for medical appointments;
    • Costs of personal care if you need assistance with daily activities.
  • Be Consistent with Your Statements – Ensure your statements to the police, medical professionals, and CICA are aligned. Discrepancies in accounts of how the injury occurred or differences in timelines may raise questions that could delay or reduce your compensation.
  • Seek Legal Assistance If Necessary – If your case is complex, involves long-term disability, or was initially rejected, consulting a solicitor who specialises in CICA claims may help strengthen your application. Legal professionals can assist in gathering additional evidence, drafting appeals, and negotiating a fair settlement.

Criminal Injuries Compensation Basic Eligibility Requirements:

You need to meet some basic requirements before you can claim compensation from CICA

  • Time Limit: There is a two-year time limit for making a CICA claim for compensation under the scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.
  • Connection Between Injury & Crime: The injuries you are claiming for must have been sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence and you are a blameless victim.
  • Reporting the Crime: The crime must have been reported to the police as soon as is reasonably practicable and you do not drop the charges. The victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. CICA does not consider whether an assailant is prosecuted or not.
  • Residency: To be eligible for compensation under the CICA scheme, the incident must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales and victim must have been resident in the UK at the time of the crime.
  • Behaviour of The Victim: The victim’s behaviour must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behaviour contributed to the injury, but this will be assessed by CICA on a case-by-case basis.
  • Criminal Convictions: In some cases, compensation may be reduced or refused if the victim has an unspent criminal record.
  • Injuries Before 1979 (the “same roof” rule): Until 2019, victims injured before 1 October 1979 by an attacker they lived with could not claim. That restriction was abolished in June 2019, so if you were previously refused compensation for this reason you may now be able to apply.

If you are considering making a compensation claim for your injuries, it’s always best to consult with a solicitor or the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) to check your eligibility to make a claim. You can call us or request a free callback for a free initial consultation. We take all CICA cases on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation.

What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in the UK is a government-run program that provides financial compensation to individuals who have been physically or mentally injured as a result of violent crime. The compensation is paid to those who have suffered injury and can demonstrate that the injury was sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence.

To be eligible for compensation, the crime must have been reported to the police and the victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. The amount of compensation awarded is based on a tariff system and can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the severity of the injury and other factors.

The purpose of this scheme is to provide financial support to victims of violent crime who have been physically or mentally injured as a result of the crime. The compensation is intended to help cover the cost of medical expenses (which are not covered by NHS or recoverable from any other source), lost income, and other expenses related to the injury.

What Payments Are Available From The Scheme?

CICA will consider claims for the following injuries, medical conditions and special expenses:

  • mental or physical injury following a crime of violence;
  • sexual or physical abuse;
  • loss of earnings – where you have no or limited capacity to work as the direct result of a criminal injury;
  • special expenses payments – these cover certain costs you may have incurred as a direct result of an incident. You can only ask us to consider special expenses if your injuries mean you have been unable to work or have been incapacitated to a similar extent for more than 28 weeks;
  • a fatality caused by a crime of violence including bereavement payments, payments for loss of parental services and financial dependency; and funeral payments.

To qualify for an award, an injury must be described in the tariff of injuries at Annex E of the CICA Scheme. Not all claims for compensation will be successful; you must be eligible under the rules of the Scheme.

What Information Do I Need To Make A Criminal Injuries Compensation Claim?

To make a claim for compensation claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), you will need to provide certain information and documentation to support your criminal injury claim. Some of the information and documentation as minimum you will need include:

Details of The Crime & Injuries: You will need to provide a detailed account of the crime that resulted in your injury, including the date, time, location of the incident and injury details.

Crime Reference Number: You will need to provide the crime reference number issued by the police.

Police Station, Police Officer Name & Collar Number: You will need to provide the name of the police station, police officer name and collar number who dealt with the crime.

GP & Hospital Details and Medical records: You will need to provide GP & hospital details, consent to ask your medical records to see the nature and extent of your injuries, including any diagnoses and treatment received and submit it to CICA.

Other Supporting Evidence: You may also need to provide additional supporting evidence, such as witness statements or photographs, specialist medical reports, etc. to support your claim.

How is The Compensation Amount Determined?

The compensation amount is determined based on a tariff system that takes into account the specific nature and impact of the injury. We can assist with negotiating the compensation amount and ensuring that you receive the maximum amount of compensation available under the scheme. We can also check your eligibility to make a CICA claim and also advise you the approximate award amount you might receive from CICA.

Can I File a CICA Claim & Receive Compensation if The Offender is Not Convicted?

Yes, you can still file a CICA claim and compensation may still be payable even if the offender is not convicted. Remember you have two years to make a compensation claim under the CICA scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.

Can I Receive Compensation if I Was Injured Outside the UK?

To be eligible for compensation through the CICA, the crime must have occurred in England, Scotland, or Wales. If you were injured outside of the UK, you may still be eligible for compensation through other schemes or compensation programs but not from CICA.

Which Injuries Can Not Be Claimed From CICA?

CICA has specific eligibility criteria for claims, and certain types of injuries or circumstances may not be eligible for compensation. Here are some common examples of injuries or circumstances that may not be eligible for compensation through the CICA:

Self-inflicted Injuries: Compensation cannot be awarded for injuries that were self-inflicted or caused by the victim’s own actions.

Criminal Activity: Compensation cannot be awarded for injuries sustained as a result of criminal activity in which the victim was participating, such as a fight or brawl.

Minor Injuries: Minor physical injuries which can be healed itself such as scratches, bruises, black eye, soft tissue injuries, broken nose, broken ribs, bruising or a black eye are not claimable. You can claim for scarring from the CICA scheme.

Animal Attack / Dog Bite:  You can’t claim for any animal attack or dog bites unless the animal was used as a weapon and ordered to attack purely to cause the harm or injuries.

Theft or Burglary: Damaged or lost/stolen properties such as house, car, phone, or any other device cannot be claimed from CICA scheme. You can claim for physical or mental injuries sustained as a result of theft, burglary and attack.

PTSD Not Diagnosed by Psychologist or Psychiatrist: PTSD, Anxiety and depression needs to be diagnosed by a clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist in order to make a claim. CICA won’t accept any diagnosis by GP or  any other medical professional.

When CICA Can Reject Your Claim?

The most common reasons for a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claim to be rejected are:

Time Limit: Claims must be made within two years of the date of the incident or the date when it is reported to the police. Where claimant is a minor they have until their 20th birthday to make a CICA claim. Claims made outside this time limit may be rejected, unless you have exceptional circumstances for the delay in submitting your claim.

Failure to Cooperate With the Police: Compensation claim may be rejected if the victim failed to provide statement, cooperate with the police during the investigation or dropped charges.

Unspent Conviction: If the claimant has an unspent conviction at the time of applying or before an award offer, their claim may be reduced or rejected. If you are unsure that your drink and drive or any other conviction is spent or unspent then give us a call.

Minor Injuries: If the injuries you sustained during the incident are minor and not included within the ‘CICA Scheme Tariff” then your claim may be rejected by CICA.

Psychological Injury Without Diagnosis: CICA may reject any claim compensation for mental injuries that are not diagnosed by a clinical Psychologist or Psychiatrist.

Lack of Supporting Evidence: If the requested medical evidence or other supporting evidence are not provided or not enough to demonstrate that you sustain an injury as a direct result of violent crime, then your claim may be rejected.

Calculate Your Claim Amount

You can use our simple CICA claim calculator to calculate the potential award amount.

How We Can Help With CICA Claim?

  • Providing Advice on Eligibility: We can help determine if you are eligible for compensation through the CICA scheme, based on the specific circumstances of your case and the other requirements of the scheme. We can help you recover compensation from £1,000 to £500,000.
  • Gathering & Presenting Evidence: We can help gather and present evidence to support your claim, including medical records, injury form, GP report and other forms & relevant documentation. We will fight to recover the compensation that you deserve & deal with matters on your behalf.
  • Completing the Application Form: We will complete the application form for CICA compensation on your behalf to ensure that it is completed correctly and submitted in a timely manner. We will handle everything on priority basis and keep it confidential.
  • Negotiating the Compensation Amount: We will negotiate with the CICA on your behalf to ensure that you receive the maximum amount of compensation available under the scheme. We will also advise you that the compensation award offered is appropriate or not.
  • No Win, No Fee: We will proceed with you claim on a No Win, No Fee basis. You don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation for you from CICA.

It’s important to note that while a solicitor is not required to make a claim for compensation through the CICA, many victims find it helpful to have legal representation to ensure that their rights are protected and that they receive the maximum amount of compensation available.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), is an executive agency of the UK government responsible for administering the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICS). The CICS is a government-funded program that provides compensation to victims of violent crime who have been physically or psychologically injured as a result of the crime.

The CICA considers applications from individuals who have been injured in England, Scotland, or Wales and who meet the eligibility criteria for the scheme. These criteria include being a resident of the UK, a national of the European Economic Area (EEA), or having leave to remain in the UK. Additionally, the crime must have been reported to the police within a reasonable time frame, and the victim must have cooperated with the police in any investigation and prosecution of the crime.

The amount of compensation awarded by the CICA depends on the nature and severity of the injury, and may also take into account loss of earnings and other expenses incurred as a result of the injury. The CICA may also consider the behaviour of the victim in determining the amount of compensation to be awarded.

The rules of the Scheme and the value of the payments awarded are set by Parliament and are calculated by reference to a tariff of injuries. Although the size of the award varies to reflect the seriousness of the injury, we know that it will never fully compensate you for what you have suffered or lost – it is just society’s way of recognising that you have been a victim.

The Scheme applies to all applications received on or after 27 November 2012. This guide should be read in conjunction with the Scheme, which remains the authoritative document.

Basic eligibility criteria for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICS):

  1. Residency: To be eligible for compensation from the CICA, you must be a resident of the UK, a national of the European Economic Area (EEA), or have leave to remain in the UK. The incident itself must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales. If you were injured by a violent crime abroad, CICA cannot compensate you, but you may be able to claim under the Victims of Terrorism Abroad Scheme or the compensation scheme of the country where it happened.
  2. Report to the Police: The crime must have been reported to the police within a reasonable time frame. The CICA may also require evidence that you have cooperated with the police in any investigation and prosecution of the crime.
  3. Injury: You must have suffered an injury as a result of a crime of violence that took place in England, Scotland, or Wales. The injury must be physically or psychologically traumatic, and you must provide medical evidence of the injury.
  4. Time Limit: There is a time limit for making an application to the CICA, which is generally two years from the date of the crime. However, in certain circumstances, the time limit may be extended.
  5. Conduct of the Victim: The CICA may also consider the behaviour of the victim in determining eligibility for compensation. If the victim was engaged in criminal activity at the time of the crime, or if their behaviour contributed to the crime, their application for compensation may be refused.
What is The Eligibility Criteria for CICA Claims?

The CICA have set criteria which enables you to claim under their scheme, which includes:

  • You must have suffered the physical or psychological injury as a result of a violent crime;
  • The incident must have happened in England, Wales or Scotland;
  • The incident must have been reported to the police as soon as practically possible;
  • You must fully cooperate with the police and the CICA;
  • Your injuries must be serious enough to meet the minimum requirements of the CICA scheme.

Time Limit: There is a two-year time limit for making a CICA claim for compensation under the scheme, although exceptions may be made in cases where the injury was not immediately apparent or where the victim was a child at the time of the crime. Exceptions may be made for historic sexual abuse cases else you should have a good reason for delay in making a claim.

Connection Between Injury & Crime: The injuries you are claiming for must have been sustained as a direct result of a crime of violence and you are a blameless victim.

Reporting the Crime: The crime must have been reported to the police as soon as is reasonably practicable and you do not drop the charges. The victim must have cooperated with the police investigation and prosecution. CICA does not consider whether an assailant is prosecuted or not.

Residency: To be eligible for compensation under the CICA scheme, the incident must have happened in England, Scotland or Wales and victim must have been resident in the UK at the time of the crime.

Behaviour of The Victim: The victim’s behaviour must not have contributed to the injury. In certain circumstances, compensation may still be payable even if the victim’s behaviour contributed to the injury, but this will be assessed by CICA on a case-by-case basis.

Criminal Convictions: In some cases, compensation may be reduced or refused if the victim has an unspent criminal record.

Injuries Before 1979 (the “same roof” rule): Until 2019, victims injured before 1 October 1979 by an attacker they lived with could not claim. That restriction was abolished in June 2019, so if you were previously refused compensation for this reason you may now be able to apply.

If you are considering making a compensation claim for your injuries, it’s always best to consult with a solicitor or the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) to check your eligibility to make a claim. You can call us or request a free callback for a free initial consultation. We take all CICA cases on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you don’t need to pay us anything if we can’t secure any compensation.

Who Can Apply for CICA Compensation?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) in the UK provides compensation to victims of violent crime who have been physically or psychologically injured. To be eligible for compensation from the CICA, you must have suffered an injury as a result of a crime of violence that took place in England, Scotland, or Wales.

To apply, you must be a resident of the UK, a national of the European Economic Area (EEA), or have leave to remain in the UK. Additionally, the injury must have been reported to the police within a reasonable time frame, and you must cooperate with the police in any investigation and prosecution of the crime. The CICA may also consider the behaviour of the victim in determining eligibility for compensation award.

The people who can apply for compensation under the scheme include:

  • A person who has suffered an injury;
  • A close relative of someone who passed away as a result of their injuries;
  • A witness of a crime or someone who arrived at the scene of the crime immediately afterwards and has suffered a psychological injury;
  • A person who has paid funeral expenses of someone who passed away as a result of their injuries.
Are There Time Limits For Applying CICA Compensation?

If you were an adult at the time of the incident, you should apply within two years of the date of the incident. However, the time limit can be extended if there were exceptional circumstances which prevented you from applying earlier and the evidence to support the application means it can be determined without further extensive enquiries.

If you were a child under 18 years old at the time of the incident, the two-year time limit doesn’t apply. If the incident was reported to the police before the child turned 18, then the two-year limit would run from the date the child turned 18, i.e. they would have to make the claim before their 20th birthday.

The CICA will consider extending time limits where you can prove that you were unable to make the claim earlier, for example, if you had a psychological illness as a result of the incident. So it’s always best to check with the CICA first to see if it’s still possible to bring a claim, even if you’re outside of the applied time limit.

What Information Do You Need to Provide When Applying For CICA Compensation?

When applying for Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) compensation, you will need to provide information about the crime, your injuries, and any other relevant information that supports your claim. Some of the key information you will need to provide includes:

  • Date, time, and location of the crime
  • Description of what happened & your injuries
  • Name of the police station where the crime was reported
  • Crime reference number & investigation officer name
  • GP’s name and address
  • Dentist’s name and address (if you had dental treatment because of your injuries)
  • Details of any previous applications you’ve made to CICA
  • Details of any unspent criminal convictions, if any
  • Proof of identity for you or anyone you’re responsible for, such as a birth or marriage certificate, power of attorney or deed poll
What Payments Are Available From The CICA Scheme?

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme provides financial compensation to victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales. The types of payments available under the scheme include:

Compensation for Injuries: This includes payments for physical and psychological injuries sustained as a result of the crime, such as broken bones, scarring, sexual abuse, sexual assault, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The amount of compensation awarded will depend on the severity and impact of the injuries.

Loss of Earnings: If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, the CICA may provide compensation for lost earnings. This can include compensation for past and future lost earnings.

Special Expenses: If you have incurred expenses as a result of the crime, such as medical expenses or travel costs, the CICA may provide compensation to cover these expenses.

Bereavement Payment: If a family member has died as a result of a violent crime, the CICA may provide a bereavement payment to the deceased person’s spouse or parents. Where a claims officer is satisfied that more than one person may be eligible for a bereavement payment in respect of the deceased, the amount of the bereavement payment is £5,500. Otherwise, the amount of the bereavement payment is £11,000. You can additionally claim payments for loss of parental services and financial dependency; and funeral payments.

Funeral Payment: If a family member has died as a result of a violent crime, the CICA may provide a payment to cover the costs of the funeral.

Child’s Payment: A child’s payment may be made to a person who is a qualifying relative if that person was at the time of the death of the deceased under 18 years old and dependent on the deceased for parental services. The period to which a child’s payment will relate begins on the day of the death and ends on the day before the child’s 18th birthday.

Dependency Payment: A dependency payment may be made to a qualifying relative who at the time of the deceased’s death was financially or physically dependent on the deceased. A qualifying relative was physically dependent on the deceased if the deceased was their main carer. The period to which a dependency payment will relate begins on the day of the death.

What Happens if You Have More Than One Injury?

If you have suffered more than one injury as a result of a violent crime, we can include all of your injuries in your Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) claim. The CICA considers all injuries when calculating the amount of compensation you may be eligible to receive.

In general, the CICA will assess the severity and impact of each of your injuries separately, and assign a specific award for each injury. The total amount of compensation you receive will be based on a formula and then sum of the individual awards for each injury.

It’s worth noting that the CICA uses a tariff-based system to determine the amount of compensation awarded for different types of injuries. The tariff sets out a range of compensation amounts for different injuries, based on their severity and impact.

In addition to compensation for physical injuries, the CICA may also provide compensation for certain psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, that have resulted from the crime.

If you have suffered multiple injuries as a result of a violent crime, it’s important to provide the CICA with as much information as possible about the nature and impact of your injuries. If you have more than one injury then each, on its own, would qualify, you may be entitled to:

  • 100% of the full tariff value of the most serious injury; and
  • 30% of the tariff amount for the injury with an equal or second highest value; plus
  • 15% of the tariff amount for any additional injury with an equal or third highest value.

The Scheme does not allow us to pay for more than three injuries. However, there are additional tariff payments which you can receive (outside multiple injury formula), if these are suffered as a direct result of your injury or assault, you:

  • become pregnant;
  • lose a foetus; or
  • contract a sexually transmitted disease.
Can I Claim if I Witnessed a Violent Crime?

If you have witnessed a violent crime, you may be eligible to make a claim for compensation under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme, provided that you meet certain eligibility criteria.

To be eligible for a CICA claim as a witness, you must have been physically injured as a direct result of the crime, or have suffered a recognised psychiatric condition as a result of witnessing the crime. This could include conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression.

In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria, there are other factors that the CICA will take into consideration when assessing your claim, such as the severity of your injuries, the impact of the crime on your life, and any other relevant factors.

Criminal injuries are not just of a physical nature, they can also be psychological. Physical injury is more straightforward for example if you are beaten up, attacked, assaulted, or mugged and have been injured as a result of the criminal conduct of another party you have a right to seek compensation.

Psychological injury though can be more difficult to define. If you witnessed a violent crime, for instance, an armed robbery or someone being attacked, just because you weren’t physically injured doesn’t mean that’s the end of it. Because most of us are lucky enough not to come into contact with violent behaviour, often when we do it has a deep psychological impact.

If you have been witness to an act of violence you could find that you keep reliving the attack over and over. This can lead to a feeling of being afraid and not wanting to go out into public. Fear and panic set in and you become unable to live your life as you did before witnessing the attack. If you can relate to this then you should contact a personal injury solicitor to find out if you could be entitled to claim compensation.

There are two basic requirements for a successful compensation claim, these are that the victim must be the innocent party caught up in a criminal act and that this has led to them suffering the physical or psychological injury. Also, CICA need the mental injury should be diagnosed by a psychiatrist or psychologist. CICA won’t accept the diagnosis from any other medical professional.

Any compensation award will be determined by the type and extent of any injuries and any long-lasting effects it has had on your life. This includes any effect on your ability to earn a living.

How Soon Can I Get My Criminal Injury Compensation through CICA?

The timeframe for receiving criminal injury compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) can vary depending on a number of factors, including the complexity of your case, the evidence required to support your claim, and the workload of the CICA.

In general, the CICA aims to process claims within 6-8 months of receiving all the necessary information and evidence, but some cases can take longer depending on the type of claim you have, the information the criminal injuries compensation authority needs, and the level of compensation you are entitled to.

However, where there are delays in obtaining medical evidence or police information or any other report documentation it can take 11-12 months, and in very complex cases where there is a large loss of earnings, it can take more time. In those cases, we always seek an interim payment.

What You Should Do Once The Abuse or Assault Has Been Reported to The Police?

If you have reported abuse or assault to the police, and are considering making a claim under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) scheme, there are several steps you can take.

It is essential that you cooperate with the police and help with the ongoing investigations in every possible way. This could include but not limited to make a formal statement and in some circumstances attending the court. In some cases, it can be extremely difficult to recall and talk about the abuse or assault but the more details you can provide will generally help your case and aid in making a criminal injuries compensation claim.

If you refuse to make a statement or withdraw your statement then criminal injuries compensation authority (CICA) are unlikely to award you any compensation, as they require that you are the blameless victim of the crime and you fully co-operated with the Police. If you do not fulfil these criteria then CICA usually refuses to compensate for any criminal injury even if you have been seriously assaulted.

Can I Make a CICA Compensation Claim if Nobody Has Been Convicted of The Crime?

If no one has been convicted of the crime, you can still make a claim to the CICA. The CICA does not require a criminal conviction as a condition of awarding compensation.

The conditions before you make a claim are that a crime must have taken place, you have suffered an injury as a result of a blameless act of violence and you have fully cooperated with the police, by reporting the incident and making a full statement.

In order to make a successful claim, you will need to provide evidence to support your claim. This could include a police report or a medical report. The CICA will assess your claim and make a decision based on the evidence provided.

It’s important to note that the CICA operates under a “no-fault” system, which means that they do not make a determination of guilt or innocence in regards to the crime. Instead, they focus solely on the impact of the crime on the victim.

Can I Make a Claim as an Adult if One Has Already Been Made When I Was a Child?

If a claim was made on your behalf when you were a child, you may not able to make a second claim for the same incident when you become an adult. The criminal injuries compensation scheme will not allow you to make a claim for the same incident two times. However, under some special circumstances, it may be possible to have a claim re-opened.

If your previous injury has worsened, or if you have suffered additional injuries as a result of the same incident, you may be eligible to receive additional compensation. You should provide the CICA with any relevant medical evidence and information regarding the impact of your injury on your life, as well as any expenses or losses you have incurred as a result of the injury.

For such cases, we need to establish the basis of the medical evidence the original decision was made. For instance, it may have been for the physical assault/abuse, but over the years the child now turned adult suffers repressed psychological symptoms which could not have been anticipated when the original award was made.

If a psychological report can be obtained that confirms the symptoms have occurred as a result of the original incident, and the symptoms are sufficiently serious to warrant additional compensation. It may be possible to reopen a CICA case where an award was originally made as a child.

Our experienced team of solicitors will be happy to discuss your case on an informal no-obligation basis. If we believe there is sufficient information to submit a further claim we will advise you and act for you on a no win no fee basis.

Who Decides How Much Criminal Injury Compensation I am Likely to Receive?

The amount of criminal injury compensation you are likely to receive is decided by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The CICA is an independent body established to provide compensation to victims of violent crime who have been injured in England, Scotland, or Wales.

The CICA has a set of guidelines and tariffs that they use to determine the amount of compensation that should be awarded in each case. The guidelines take into account various factors, such as the type and severity of the injury, any ongoing physical or psychological effects, and any loss of earnings or expenses incurred as a result of the injury.

Even when the perpetrator of the injuries is caught and found guilty a compensation claim is not made against the criminal as they would likely not have sufficient funds to cover it and would not be covered by any personal liability insurance. This responsibility falls on the CICA who evaluates the merits of any claim and award compensation accordingly.

For a case to be successful the CICA must determine whether or not you played a part in the criminal act and if it resulted in you suffering physical or psychological injuries. This could range from being witness to a criminal act that has a psychological effect on you right through to suffering a most serious physical attack. When considering injuries suffered the most obvious ones are often the physical ones such as cuts, bruises, scarring, or broken bones.

Often the psychological effects are long term and do not heal as readily as the physical injuries. Anxiety, stress, and even depression can result from being caught up in criminal acts and do not always surface immediately after the incident. These can reveal themselves months or even years later and can have long term effects.

The CICA only compensates for injuries that according to their tariffs are worth over £1,000. The most serious injury awards go up to £500,000. You are able to claim for more than one injury, getting the full value for the most serious injury with subsequent injuries receiving a reduction according to the CICA rules. Usually, the three most serious injuries will be compensated but there are some incidents that fall outside this rule.

You may also be compensated for the loss of earnings, medical expenses, and some other costs that occurred as a result of the injuries.

There are many factors that can determine any compensation award like the type of injury, the severity of the injury, and any long term effects it has on your life. We offer a no win no fee service to give advice and help guide you through the process of making a claim whilst ensuring maximum recompense.