You can claim compensation for domestic violence in the UK.Â
Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)
Most domestic violence claims are made through the government’s CICA scheme which provides compensation to victims of violent crime. The definition of violent crime includes domestic violence of a physical or sexual nature.
To make a CICA claim, the incident must have been reported to the police, and the application should generally be made within two years of the crime being committed. Exceptions to the time limit may be made in cases where there were significant reasons for the delay, such as fear of the perpetrator or mental health issues.
The perpetrator does not need to have been convicted in order for the domestic abuse survivor to apply for CICA compensation. However, you must be able to provide evidence of the assault, and be willing to cooperate with the police investigation. It is also a requirement of the CICA scheme that the perpetrator of the domestic violence will not benefit from any award. This can be an issue where the survivor continues to live with their partner.
It is important to note that the CICA does not pay compensation for harassment, or financial or emotional abuse.
Civil Claim
A civil claim for compensation can be made against the perpetrator directly. The court can award compensation for physical and psychological injuries, as well as any financial losses caused by the abuse. Civil claims should be commenced within three years from the date of the injury. Such claims will only be economically viable if the perpetrator has the financial resources to satisfy any judgment.
Family Law Proceedings
In some cases, financial compensation may be awarded through family law proceedings, particularly if financial abuse or other forms of economic loss are involved. This can include compensation as part of a divorce settlement or through claims for financial relief.
How we can help
We have a specialist abuse team which is highly experienced in recovering compensation for survivors of domestic violence. We have succeeded in recovering compensation in cases where others have failed. Our lawyers have also been successful in having our clients’ CICA compensation significantly increased. In one such case our client’s compensation was increased by £200,000.
We therefore know how to present a case to ensure that you receive compensation, and to maximise the amount of the award. And because we work on a No Win, No Fee basis, there is no need to allow worries about funding legal costs to put you off seeking justice.
Call us free on 0333 888 0404 or email us at [email protected]
