CICA FAQ
Q. What is the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority?
A. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority is a government body set up to administer the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme in this country. The purpose of the Authority is to provide a service for those people who have unfortunately been a victim of violent crime. They recognise when a person has suffered because of a violent act, and depending on the facts of the particular case, may give an award of compensation in order to provide some assistance with helping that person to move on from the incident.
Q. What evidence do I need to support my claim?
A. You will need your Crime Reference Number and the name and collar number of the Police Officer who dealt with the incident. If there was a witness to the incident, you will need their full name and address. It is helpful helpful to provide as much information as possible at the outset, however the CICA will make enquiries with all relevant authorities direct, for example, the police, your treating GP or Hospital.
It should be noted that it is normally a requirement of the CICA in deciding whether to accept an application that an incident must have been reported to the Police, and thereafter, you must have co-operated with their enquiries.
Q. How long do I have to bring a claim?
A. CICA claims are slightly different to other personal injury claims, which allow a Claimant to bring their claim within 3 years from the date of the incident. In bringing a CICA claim, a Claimant only has 2 years from the date of the incident in which to bring a claim. Thereafter, the claim can be deemed to be out of time. If a claim is brought outside of this 2 year period, and there is good reason as to why it was not reasonable for the claim to have been brought within this time, the CICA may still consider the claim, if there is enough evidence available for them to properly investigate.
Q. Can I get compensation for psychological/emotional damage?
A. A Claimant may be eligible for compensation if they were injured following an act of violence. This can include the physical injury and also the psychological effects of the assault. Claimants should seek medical attention in respect of any injuries they are suffering. During the course of bringing a CICA claim, the CICA will contact any treating Health Professional, including Counsellors or Mental Health Specialists, to obtain details of the injury and required treatment. On assessing this information, the CICA will decide whether it is appropriate to make an award, taking into account all the circumstances of the case
