Criminal Injuries Compensation
Criminal Injuries Compensation is often available to the innocent victims of violent crime. Often (although not always) it would otherwise be impossible for a victim to obtain justice, since frequently the perpetrators of violence will either evade justice altogether, or they will lack the financial resources to merit raising a compensation claim against them privately. Accordingly, the government allocates a fund of money for victims to apply to. Generally, if you have been assaulted or otherwise injured through violence, physically or mentally, with the last two years, then you may be able to make a claim. If you were attacked before your sixteenth birthday, or in some other cases, the two year time limit may be extended.
However, claims are not always initially successful. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority sometimes refuses claims altogether, or it may offer an award somewhat less than your injury deserves. In such cases, you will have the right to apply for a review, or you may even appeal the decision to an independent Panel. LSA's Court Department provides advice on all stages of the Criminal Injuries Compensation process, and may also provide representation at tribunal.