CICA Advise

[Peony290]

TW: SA/DV

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone has claimed CICA after domestic abuse and rape?

I have had to leave my job because my abuser worked at the same place and so if I'm honest compensation would really help right now (I know it's a long process). However I've heard some say that claiming CICA can damage your case in court, although wrongly the defence use it against you.

Has anyone had any experience with this please?

Thank you!

I am reading that a prosecution is pending.

it is true that the defence may try to suggest that you reported issues to the police that are made up and were only ever motivated by making a financial claim.

But if there is clear evidence of abuse before the court that is a weak argument.

an award can take up to twelve months so you should make a claim now. CICA do not make an assessment of your entitlement based on a successful prosecution. It is based on a police report, evidence held, injury sustained and cooperation with the police.

IANAL but worked in the field of DV for many years and submitted claims.

Thank you so much for your response, they haven't actually made a decision on whether to charge him or not yet it's just my ISVA mentioned that if they do charge and it goes to court it could come back on me so I was worried.

I do know the chance of charging and it getting to court is slim so maybe it's better to put in a claim regardless.

Thank you for your help, I do really appreciate it!