It came as no surprise to us when the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL) recently reported that victims of crime who appeal initial offers made through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme end up being offered six times more.
We specialise in CICA claims here at Ison Harrison and regularly appeal awards that have been made by the CICA which do not adequately compensate our client.
In the 379 cases which reached appeal in 2022/23, an average of £7,848 was initially offered for each claim, the association said. When appealed, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority’s (CICA’s) offer in these cases increased to £47,339 – more than six times per person.
Our Director and Head of Personal Injury, Gareth Naylor said:
The CICA may very well tell victims of crime that they do not need to appoint a legal representative to pursue their claim. But these figures clearly suggest that victims are not receiving the compensation to which they are entitled if they don’t have legal assistance. The CICA guidelines and tariff can be difficult to understand and sometimes victims will require specialist expert evidence to support their claim which we can arrange. We have appealed offers from a few thousand pounds to a six-figure sum on occasions where an applicant has sustained life changing injuries which has affected their ability work. Applicants will not know what they’re entitled to unless they consider and understand the guidance notes fully.
If you have been a victim of a crime and sustained an injury, or been a victim of abuse, please do not hesitate to contact our specialist team on 0113 284 5014.
We understand how difficult it can be for victims of crime to seek help and legal advice, but we will provide thorough and professional advice in a sensitive manner and we will support you fully throughout the process and ensure that you receive the compensation that you are entitled to.
