In a recent case of ours involving a young woman, our client, Abbie*, sought help following a traumatic experience. As a teenager in Yorkshire, Abbie endured a horrific ordeal when she was abducted and sexually assaulted by strangers. Despite the challenges she faced, she bravely pursued justice and sexual assault compensation, with our team supporting her throughout the process.
What is CICA Sexual Assault Compensation?
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government agency under the Ministry of Justice that provides sexual assault compensation to victims of violent crimes. The CICA outlines the framework for victims to apply for and receive compensation. Even in cases where a criminal trial results in a not guilty verdict, the CICA can assess claims based on the evidence available, ensuring that victims are not denied support.
Abbie’s Ordeal
Abbie’s traumatic experience began one day after school as she walked home alone. While on a quiet street, she noticed a car following her. Two men were inside, and one leaned out of the window, trying to speak to her. Feeling uneasy, Abbie quickened her pace, but the car stopped abruptly. One of the men got out, grabbed her, and forced her into the vehicle.
The men took her to a nearby house, where Abbie endured hours of fear and violence, including a sexual assault. Eventually, she managed to escape through an open window while her attackers were asleep. The attack left Abbie deeply traumatised, and in the days that followed, she was unable to leave home without her parents. She received support from her doctor and an Independent Sexual Violence Advisor (ISVA) provided by the police. Together, they guided her through the immediate aftermath of the assault.
Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) are trained professionals who support survivors of sexual violence, offering practical and emotional assistance. More information about ISVAs and their role can be found on the Rape Crisis website.
Deciding to Make a CICA Claim for Sexual Assault Compensation
With encouragement from her ISVA, Abbie and her parents considered pursuing a sexual assault compensation claim through the CICA. At 18, Abbie contacted us to begin the process. Our team helped her gather the necessary evidence, prepare her case, and submit her application to the CICA.
While the police conducted a lengthy investigation, and the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) eventually brought the case to trial, the jury returned a not guilty verdict. The decision was based on the legal standard of proof in criminal trials, which requires evidence to be beyond all reasonable doubt.
It’s important to note that a not guilty verdict in a criminal trial does not mean a crime did not occur. It simply means the evidence did not meet the high threshold required for conviction. For CICA claims, the standard of proof is different. The CICA can award compensation if it is more likely than not that a violent crime took place, based on the available evidence. In this way, we were able to secure sexual assault compensation for Abbie.
How Winston Solicitors Helped Secure Sexual Assault Compensation
Despite the not guilty verdict, we successfully represented Abbie in her claim to the CICA for sexual assault compensation. Our team worked closely with her to ensure all relevant evidence from the police investigation was submitted. We provided clear guidance on the CICA process and advised on the appropriate sexual assault compensation under the scheme’s tariff system.
Thanks to careful preparation and advocacy, Abbie received £11,000 in sexual assault compensation. This award provided her with the means to access private counselling and to save towards her university education, helping her move forward with her life.
What Can We Learn from Abbie’s Case?
Abbie’s story highlights an important fact - that victims of violent crimes, including sexual assault, can still pursue compensation through the CICA. Even if the criminal case does not result in a guilty verdict. Many survivors mistakenly believe they must wait for a criminal trial to conclude or that sexual assault compensation is only possible after a conviction. In reality, the CICA process is independent of the criminal justice system and allows claims to proceed regardless of trial outcomes.
If you or someone you know has suffered from sexual violence, don’t delay in seeking support. Our team at Winston Solicitors is experienced in handling sensitive cases with care and professionalism. We are here to help you through every step of the process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
To speak to one of our specialist lawyers, call us today at 0113 320 5000 or email us at cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk.
. * Name changed for anonymity
