CICA claims for Ex-Army Personnel: A guide to compensation for victims of crime

Serving in the armed forces often exposes individuals to risks and dangers beyond the ordinary.

While most service-related injuries are addressed through military compensation schemes, there are instances where ex-Army personnel might fall victim to violent crimes either during or after their service.

In such cases, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) can provide financial relief. This article explores the key aspects of CICA claims for ex-Army men and women and how to navigate the process effectively.

What Is a CICA claim?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is a government-funded scheme in the UK designed to compensate victims of violent crime. If you’ve suffered physical or psychological harm due to a criminal act, you may be eligible to receive compensation through CICA. For ex-Army personnel, this could include:

• Assaults during civilian life.
• Criminal attacks experienced while on leave or off-duty.
• Violence during deployments, provided the crime occurred within the UK or its territorial jurisdiction.

Eligibility criteria

To make a successful CICA claim, you must meet specific eligibility requirements:

1. Victim of a Violent Crime: You must demonstrate that the harm resulted directly from a criminal act, such as assault, sexual violence, or other intentional injuries.
2. Location: The crime must have occurred in England, Scotland, Wales, or certain British territories.
3. Reporting: The incident must have been reported to the police as soon as reasonably possible. Delays in reporting could jeopardize your claim.
4. Injury: You need medical evidence of the injury, whether physical or psychological, caused by the crime.
5. Time Limits: CICA claims generally must be made within two years of the incident. However, exceptions may apply, particularly for military personnel who may have faced barriers in accessing the claims process during service.

Common scenarios for ex-Army Personnel

Ex-Army personnel might encounter unique circumstances that necessitate a CICA claim. Some examples include:

• Post-Service Assaults: Veterans transitioning to civilian life might face vulnerability to violence, especially if struggling with mental health issues like PTSD.
• Service-Related Trauma and Civilian Crime: Psychological conditions such as PTSD, developed during service, may be exacerbated by subsequent criminal incidents.
• Criminal Injuries During Leave: Crimes occurring while on leave, but within UK jurisdiction, could qualify for CICA compensation.

How to make a CICA claim

1. Report the Crime: Ensure the crime is reported to the police immediately. Obtain the crime reference number for your application.
2. Contact Oakwood Solicitors Ltd

By seeking professional legal help, we can guide you through the next steps of your claim.

We can help you gather evidence of your injuries and their impact. This could include medical reports, witness statements, and police reports to support your application. We will also support you throughout your application to ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Compensation amounts

CICA compensation amounts vary based on the nature and severity of the injuries. Awards range from £1,000 for minor injuries to £500,000 for the most severe cases involving life-altering harm. Additional compensation might be available for:

• Loss of earnings
• Special expenses related to medical treatment
• Psychological counselling

Why should I use Oakwood Solicitors Ltd?

Navigating a CICA claim can be challenging, especially for those already dealing with trauma or injury.

At Oakwood Solicitors Ltd, our legal professionals are experienced in handling cases for ex-military personnel and can provide invaluable assistance. We will ensure your claim is presented clearly, with all necessary evidence, to maximize your chances of a successful outcome.

We also operate on a no-win no-fee basis so you will not pay a penny unless your claim is successful.

Oakwood Solicitors is committed to supporting Armed Forces personnel, veterans and reservists, whether they are still serving or have entered civilian life. Proudly partnered with veterans charity, Front Foot we aim to support veterans in all manners of life.

Having signed the Armed Forces Covenant, Oakwood Solicitors is passionate about supporting and seeking justice for those who have served our country.

With a proven track record of success and a commitment to protecting your rights, Oakwood Solicitors is the trusted choice for military personnel seeking justice.

Contact Oakwood Solicitors today to discuss your Military compensation claim and how we can assist you.

Navigating military legal claims for compensation can be complex, but understanding your rights and the process involved is crucial.

With the help of a specialised Military Claims solicitor, you can pursue the compensation you deserve for injuries or illnesses sustained during your service, legal support for family matters or help selling or buying a property or making a Will.

This legal support can be vital in helping you recover and move forward with your life.

Further reading

Military legal advice and support – Oakwood Solicitors

Staff Spotlight – Liam Hill

Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority – Website

WHAT TO DO NEXT

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