If your CICA claim has been refused, it can feel like you’ve been knocked back all over again. You’ve already been through something traumatic. Then you’re asked to explain what happened, provide evidence and wait for a decision, only to be told no.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) makes decisions using strict rules about evidence, what counts as a crime of violence, time limits and eligibility. Because of this, claims can be refused even when someone has been genuinely hurt.
This guide explains the top 5 reasons a CICA claim is refused, how to avoid common problems and what you can do if your claim has already been turned down.
We regularly help clients with CICA reviews and appeals. We can talk you through your options and, in many cases, offer no win, no fee funding.
Why CICA claims are commonly refused
CICA is a government-funded scheme that can pay compensation to people who’ve been injured by violent crime in England, Scotland and Wales.
However, it doesn’t work like an insurance claim. CICA follows strict rules and a fixed injury tariff. If something does not meet those rules, even on a technical point, the claim may be refused.
Each year, many claims are refused due to issues such as gaps in evidence, how the offence is recorded by the police, delays in reporting, lack of co-operation, or criminal record and conduct concerns.
A refusal doesn’t always mean the decision is final. Often, the key is understanding exactly why CICA said no, then addressing what can be addressed through clearer evidence, a review or an appeal.
Reason 1 – Your injuries are not covered or clearly evidenced
What this means
CICA compensation is based on a tariff. This is a set list of injuries with fixed payment amounts. Your injury must fit within the tariff, and the evidence must clearly support it.
Refusals often happen when medical records do not clearly link symptoms to the incident, when notes are inconsistent, or when there is not enough detail about severity or long term impact.
For psychological injuries, CICA requires a recognised diagnosis and supporting medical evidence, rather than descriptions of how you feel alone.
How to avoid this
- Get medical help as early as you can and keep going back if symptoms continue.
- Keep copies of letters, appointments, prescriptions and referrals.
- If you’re struggling mentally, tell your GP or support service so it’s properly recorded.
- A solicitor can spot where your injury doesn’t neatly fit the tariff and help close evidence gaps.
Reason 2 – CICA says it wasn’t a crime of violence
What this means
CICA only pays compensation for injuries linked to specific categories, including crimes of violence. In simple terms, this usually means a physical attack, a threat of immediate violence, or an injury suffered while trying to prevent a violent crime.
CICA relies heavily on how the incident is recorded by the police. If the offence is logged under a different classification, CICA may argue it does not qualify.
How to avoid this
- When reporting, describe the violent actions clearly.
- Keep your crime reference number and any police correspondence.
- A solicitor can ask for relevant police information and challenge CICA’s reasoning where the facts support a violent offence.
Reason 3 – Delays with reporting or missing time limits
Reporting delays
CICA usually expects crimes to be reported as soon as reasonably practicable. This can be complicated if you were frightened, controlled by someone else or dealing with trauma. This is particularly common in domestic abuse, sexual violence and historic abuse cases.
Claim deadlines
There are also time limits for applying. The usual deadline is often referred to as two years from the date of incident, but the exact rule and when it starts can depend on your circumstances. Exceptions may apply for children, people without mental capacity and other exceptional situations.
How to avoid this
- Report the crime when it’s safe to do so, and as soon as reasonably practicable.
- Apply as early as you can, even if you’re still gathering evidence.
- If you’re near a deadline or thinking about a late claim, get advice quickly.
Reason 4 – Not co-operating with police or CICA
What counts as non-co-operation
CICA may refuse a claim if it believes you did not co-operate. This can include not giving a statement, missing appointments, withdrawing support from an investigation or not responding to CICA requests for information.
Trauma-aware context
Many people find co-operating hard for valid reasons. This might be fear of reprisals, intimidation, coercive control or mental health difficulties. These barriers matter, but CICA won’t always understand them unless they’re explained and evidenced.
How to avoid this
- Respond to letters and emails promptly where possible or ask for more time if needed.
- Explain any safety or health barriers and keep records of why things were difficult.
- A solicitor can help present your reasons clearly to CICA and support them with evidence.
Reason 5 – Eligibility, conduct and unspent convictions
Unspent convictions
CICA has strict rules on criminal records. Certain unspent convictions can lead to your award being reduced or refused entirely. This can apply even if the conviction is unrelated to the incident.
Conduct and the ‘blameless victim’ issue
CICA may also look at your conduct around the incident. If it decides you were involved in a fight or took risks that contributed to what happened, this can affect the outcome.
How to avoid issues
- Be honest about any convictions and your role in the incident.
- Don’t assume CICA won’t find out. It can make things worse later.
- If you’re worried convictions or conduct will be a problem, get early advice before applying.
What to do if your CICA claim has already been refused
Review your refusal letter
Start with the decision letter. Identify the exact reasons for refusal and any evidence CICA says is missing. Make a note of any deadlines.
Requesting a review
In many cases, you can ask CICA to review its decision. This is often appropriate if you can provide clearer or new evidence, such as updated medical records or explanations about reporting or co-operation. Review deadlines are strict.
CICA appeal process
If you still disagree after a review, you may be able to appeal to an independent tribunal. Appeal time limits are also strict.
When to seek legal help
Legal advice can be particularly helpful where a refusal involves crime classification disputes, time limits, psychological injury evidence, convictions or an urgent deadline.
How Express Solicitors can help
A refused CICA claim is upsetting, but it’s also common and it might be something you can challenge with the right evidence and explanation.
Most CICA refusals fall into one of five areas:
- Injury evidence
- Crime classification
- Delays
- Co-operation
- Eligibility, convictions or conduct
Once you know which applies, you can take practical steps to strengthen a new claim, a review or an appeal.
If your CICA claim has been refused, contact Express Solicitors for clear, compassionate advice about your next steps. We may be able to help on a no win, no fee basis. Terms apply.
CICA refusal reasons FAQs
What are the main reasons CICA claims are refused?
This is usually because of not enough injury evidence, it’s not classed as a crime of violence, reporting/time limit issues, lack of co-operation, or eligibility/convictions and conduct.
Can I still claim if my CICA application was refused?
Often, yes. You might be able to request a review or appeal, depending on the reason and the deadline.
How long do I have to appeal a CICA decision?
Appeal time limits are strict and depend on what stage you’re at.
Can I claim if the offender wasn’t charged or convicted?
Sometimes. CICA can still decide based on evidence, but police records and co-operation are usually important.
What if I reported the crime late?
Late reporting can cause problems, but there might be good reasons like fear, trauma or coercive control. Evidence and explanation matter.
Will my criminal record affect my claim?
It can. Certain unspent convictions may reduce or block an award under strict rules.
Do I need a solicitor for a CICA review or appeal?
You don’t have to, but legal support can help if the refusal is complex or you’re up against a deadline, especially for reviews and appeals.