The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) was set up to compensate victims of crime who had suffered personal injury. The scheme is administered by the government and has essentially remained unchanged for many years.

Applications to the CICA generally have to be made within two years. There are however exceptions on which we can advise. Applicants need to demonstrate that they have cooperated with the police. The CICA has very specific rules about how claims can be calculated and how much can be claimed for certain injuries.

The CICA can be a lengthy process and has complex rules which can prevent some victims of crime being compensated. Our personal injury team can advise clients about whether it is possible to make a claim via the CICA. In appropriate cases, we can guide clients through the whole process including identifying items which can be claimed and the evidence required to support the claim.

We can also arrange for medical and care reports to be completed which assist with identification of injuries and the value of care required for future needs. Where the CICA has declined either to take on a claim or to award for certain losses and costs our solicitors can advise about the prospects of making an appeal on a specific issue or if necessary arrange for suitable representation for any hearings and a barrister's opinion.