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Compensation for Murdered Relatives

Sunday 2nd October 2016

Frequestly Asked Questions

Yes, like many claims in England, Scotland and Wales, murder compensation claims are subject to a time limitation period. Claims through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) must be submitted within two years of the incident. The CICA may allow claims after this period if they deem it suitable. For instance, if the case involved childhood abuse or the claimant had a health condition preventing them from submitting a claim, the CICA may still allow them to proceed after two years. Other accident claims that don’t go through the CICA have a three-year limitation period. Our solicitors can advise on the deadline for making a claim based on your unique circumstances.

The accused party responsible for the death doesn’t need to have been convicted of the crime for claimants to get compensation. The Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme is separate from a criminal court. You should still proceed with the claim as soon as possible whether or not the accused has been convicted or even if criminal proceedings are still in progress. The compensation claim will be decided based on the ‘balance of probabilities’ instead of ‘beyond reasonable doubt’ as in criminal cases.

To help you win your case and get the maximum compensation possible, you must submit your claim with the strongest possible evidence. Evidence might include police reports, medical records, witness statements, and financial documents, to name just a few. The evidence should be accurate, clear and detailed. Please speak to one of our solicitors today for guidance on this stage of the process.

Under a No Win, No Fee policy, clients don't need to pay the legal costs until the solicitors win the claim. Claimants won't pay the solicitor's fees if the case is unsuccessful. This policy ensures relatives who've lost a loved one to murder can pursue justice and the compensation they deserve without worrying about financial risk and losing money if the claim is unsuccessful.