What Is The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, or CICA, compensates victims of violent crime.  The official definition of a ‘crime of violence’ specifically includes rape.

The CICA scheme is complex and although you can submit a claim yourself it often pays to use specialist lawyers like us. We have an excellent track record of obtaining and maximising compensation awards.  Among our successes is a case where we got our client’s CICA compensation award increased from £7,500 to more than £180,000.

Criminal injuries compensation for rape victims

Criminal injuries compensation for rape victims can be claimed under the CICA scheme.

• the rape should have been reported to the police as soon as reasonably practicable.
• applications should be made within two years, unless the victim is under 18. Applications out of time may however be allowed in cases of rape.
• the maximum award is £500,000
• compensation is awarded for the victim’s physical and mental injuries
• compensation can also be awarded for:
  a) Loss of earnings
  b) Special expenses, such as counselling
• compensation can be made for up to 3 separate injuries
• compensation awards can be reviewed and appealed

Because the CICA scheme does not cover the victim’s legal costs, we operate on a No Win – No Fee basis. Our fees will be deducted from your compensation at the rate of 20% plus VAT. If the claim is not successful then we do not make a charge.

If you wish to discuss making a rape claim on a No Win, No Fee basis call Elizabeth on 0800 037 8020 or email her at info@rapecompensation.co.uk