If you’ve been the victim of a violent crime, you may be entitled to compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA)—but the process is far from simple. With confusing rules, strict deadlines, and a reputation for making low offers, many victims are left feeling let down. That’s where this episode comes in.

In S1 E2 of Do Yourself Justice, host Danny Lawrence is joined by expert solicitor Elizabeth Duncan, who specialises in abuse, trauma, and personal injury law at the award-winning firm Slee Blackwell Solicitors. Together, they unpack the CICA scheme and share practical advice that could make the difference between a rejected claim and a life-changing award.

Elizabeth is one of the UK’s leading CICA specialists. She has helped countless victims of crime navigate the CICA process. She is recommended by the Legal 500 and recently won the DASLS Legal Hero Award.

Whether you’re thinking about making a claim, have already submitted one, or just want to understand your rights, this is essential listening.

Chapters & Timecodes

00:00 – Introduction to Do Yourself Justice
01:06 – What is the CICA?
02:03 – Why choose to be a specialist in abuse compensation law?
05:19 – A Do Yourself Justice scenario
06:28 – Can I make a claim if I have a previous conviction?
08:30 – How much money can I get from the CICA?
10:56 – Can I make a claim if no one has been arrested?
11:27 – How long do I have to apply to the CICA?
12:48 – What might cause a CICA application to fail?
13:18 – What if I don’t co-operate with the police?
13:43 – What medical evidence do I need?
14:34 – Can I appeal a CICA award?
15:25 – How long does a CICA application take?
16:14 – What are the problems with the CICA scheme?
17:25 – When should I ask a solicitor for help?
18:41 – How to contact a specialist solicitor
19:15 – Ending

What is the CICA?

The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government body that provides financial compensation to victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales. It operates under a strict set of rules known as the CICA Scheme, which sets out who can claim, what evidence is required, and how much compensation can be awarded.

Awards are based on a tariff system, with fixed payments for specific injuries, such as broken bones, PTSD, or sexual assault. Additional compensation may be available for lost earnings and care needs—but these are often under-calculated, and many victims are unaware they can challenge or appeal the initial decision.

The scheme can be daunting. Claims may be rejected for technical reasons, like missing the time limit, having an unspent conviction, or failing to co-operate with police. Some applicants accept low offers without realising they can request a review or appeal. Legal advice isn’t required, but as Elizabeth explains, it can be vital in securing a fair outcome.

Key Takeaways

• You may be eligible even if no one has been arrested.

• A criminal record can affect your claim—but not always fatally.

• You typically have 2 years to apply, but there are exceptions.

• Compensation can cover both physical and psychological injuries.

• Medical evidence and police cooperation are essential.

• CICA often lowballs victims, especially for lost earnings.

• Legal advice increases your chances of a better outcome.

• You can appeal if the offer is unfair—don’t give up.

About the Guest
Elizabeth Duncan is a solicitor with experience handling complex CICA claims, reviews, and appeals. She is nationally recognised for her work on abuse and trauma cases, and has secured some of the highest known awards through the scheme.

Hosted by Danny Lawrence, a broadcaster and legal outsider who asks the questions you’re thinking. Every week, Danny speaks to a different legal expert from Slee Blackwell Solicitors to explain your rights—plainly, honestly, and without jargon.

Learn more: www.cicacriminalinjurysolicitors.co.uk www.sleeblackwell.co.uk