If you have been a victim of a crime, you can claim compensation for the injuries and other losses caused by the incident. Therefore, it is important to understand the different aspects of the criminal injuries compensation scheme. This information will help protect you from the financial repercussions of the attack. You can make a recompense claim as the primary victim of the crime or as a close relative if the person involved has already passed away. Here are the critical aspects of criminal injuries compensation that you should understand before starting the process.
Extent of Compensation Coverage
The compensation scheme applies to all victims of crime, regardless of the criminal's status. In simple terms, you will be protected from the financial problems even if the person has not been arrested, charged or even identified. The law is designed to provide compensation if you suffered any bodily injury during the crime. Other health aspects such as pregnancy and mental status will be considered and compensated as appropriate. You can also get recompense for unquantifiable issues such as general pain, loss of enjoyment and suffering. In addition, discuss the possibility of getting compensated for loss of income and incidental expenses like travel and loss of property.
Lodging the Application
You should present your compensation claim to the criminal compensation offices in your region as soon as possible. Generally, they will provide you with a catalogue of the information required to make a successful claim. There is no application fee required for the process, and you can act independently or engage a solicitor. You might have a better chance of success with a lawyer since they have more experience in such issues. However, you will not be reimbursed for the legal fees that you will incur. You will be required to provide supporting documents for the compensation claim. These should be included in the application before lodging. The important documents include medical reports, proof of expenses, the official prosecution and incident reports and your account of the crime and its repercussions.
Non-Eligible Crimes
There are some criminal injuries claims that will not be eligible for compensation. It is important to understand these before lodgement so that you can seek legal counsel. If you have never reported the crime to the police, your claim will be rejected unless the circumstances were extenuating. If your injuries were covered by insurance or caused in auto accidents, you are not considered for criminal compensation. In addition, your claim might be rejected if you were not the main victim.
Share19 May 2016
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