Criminal Injury Claims
Injured as a result of a criminal act that wasn't your fault?
CEL Solicitors are here to guide you through the legal process with care, clarity and confidence. You are not alone.
Get StartedOr call free on 0151 909 8212
CEL Solicitors are here to guide you through the legal process with care, clarity and confidence. You are not alone.
Get StartedOr call free on 0151 909 8212
CICA is a government scheme that pays compensation to people who have been injured because of a violent crime. It supports those living with physical injuries, long-term psychological trauma, or both.
A CICA claim can help cover:
You don’t need the offender to be caught or convicted. What matters is that you were the victim of a violent crime and that you reported the incident to the police.
If you were harmed in a violent incident and reported it to the police, you may be able to claim. The crime must have taken place in the UK, and most adults need to apply within two years of reporting it. CICA also expects you to have cooperated with the police, though it understands that trauma affects people in different ways and at different times.
If any of this feels complicated, that’s completely normal. We take everything at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you.
Many people try to apply to CICA alone and end up feeling confused, ignored or overwhelmed. Our role is to take that pressure off your shoulders and guide your claim with confidence from day one.
We listen to your experience, explain the CICA scheme in clear, simple language, and confirm whether you’re eligible. No pressure and no judgement.
We take care of every step, including:
Our aim is to present a strong, well-prepared claim right from the start.
CICA often ask for extra details. This can be stressful to deal with alone. We:
You’ll never be left wondering what’s happening.
When CICA make their decision, we talk you through it so you understand:
If you choose to accept, we help complete the paperwork and chase payment.
If your claim is rejected or the offer is too low, we don’t stop there.
Requesting a review: We gather extra evidence or correct any errors to strengthen your case.
Tribunal appeal: If needed, we take your case to the First-tier Tribunal and represent you throughout. Specialist support here can make a significant difference.
We can help with:
From start to finish, you have a team that cares and knows how to get results.
A confidential chat with our specialist team. We explain your options and answer any questions.
We gather police information, medical evidence and supporting documents, then submit your claim.
CICA may ask for more details. We respond on your behalf to keep your claim moving.
When CICA provide their offer, we review it with you and help you accept or challenge it.
If the award is too low or your claim is rejected, we guide you through the review and tribunal stages.
Once compensation is paid, we help you plan next steps and protect your award if needed.
A CICA claim is often the safest route when the offender can’t be identified, has no assets, or cannot be held directly responsible in a civil claim.
Civil claims can sometimes lead to higher compensation because they are brought directly against the person or organisation responsible. Both routes have strengths and limitations, and we help you understand which is best for your situation.
The usual time limit is two years from the date you reported the crime to the police. However, CICA may allow late claims in exceptional circumstances, including if:
If you’re unsure about timing, please talk to us. Even if the incident happened years ago, you may still have options.
You’ve been through enough. Let us take the stress out of your claim. Contact CEL Solicitors today for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, support, and fight for the justice you deserve. No win, no fee. No stress. Just tell CEL.
Speak to our friendly team today. You are not alone, and you may have a case.
You can claim compensation for a wide range of injuries caused by violent crime, including:
You may be able to reopen your claim if your condition worsens significantly. We monitor your case and advise on the best course to ensure your compensation reflects any new developments.
If you were under 18 when the incident happened, the standard two-year time limit does not apply in the same way. You may have until your 20th birthday (or in exceptional cases, longer) to submit a claim.
Compensation is calculated using the official CICA tariff, which considers the type and severity of your injury, medical treatment, and any financial losses. Awards vary, but we can help you estimate your likely compensation using our experience and CICA guidance.
The time for CICA to process a claim varies. Many claims are decided within 6–12 months, but some can take longer, particularly if additional medical reports or evidence are needed. We stay involved at every stage to help speed things up and keep you informed.
You can apply on your own, but many applicants find the process complex. We handle the legal aspects, evidence collection, and communication with CICA, helping you submit a strong claim for the full compensation you deserve, while avoiding unnecessary delays.
Yes. CICA supports victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence. We handle sensitive claims with care, ensuring your privacy and wellbeing are always protected.
Yes. You do not need the offender to be identified, caught, or convicted to claim through CICA. The key is that you were the victim of a violent crime and reported it to the police.
Yes. Injuries caused during a criminal act by a dog attack or other violent animal incidents can be included in a CICA claim. We can guide you on the evidence needed, including veterinary or medical reports and witness statements.
Yes. You can request a review of the decision, and if necessary, we can take your case to the First-tier Tribunal. We guide you through the process and handle all communications and representation.
We have extensive experience handling personal injury claims.
Nothing to pay up front. You only pay if we win.
Every claim is different, so we tailor our service to your needs.
We are committed to getting the best outcome for our clients.
If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, don't wait. Contact CEL Solicitors to explore your personal injury options.
