CICA vs Civil Compensation vs Restraining Order

Three separate routes exist for victims of crime. They can run in parallel — claiming CICA does not prevent a civil claim or restraining order.

Tip: scroll the table sideways to see all columns →

Feature	CICA	Civil Claim	Restraining Order
What it gives you	State-funded compensation	Damages from the perpetrator	Protection order restricting perpetrator's contact
Who pays	Government scheme (Ministry of Justice)	Perpetrator (or their insurer)	No financial element
Time limit	2 years from incident	6 years (3 years for personal injury)	After conviction or acquittal in criminal court
Requires perpetrator known?
Standard of proof	Balance of probabilities	Balance of probabilities	Balance of probabilities
Awards	£1,000 - £500,000 + dependency awards	Actual loss + damages (unlimited)	Non-financial — protection only
Cost to apply	Free (online application)	Solicitor fees; conditional fee often available	Free if applied for by police; private application £75
Typical decision time	6-18 months	12-36 months	At sentencing or shortly after

You can pursue all three routes at the same time. CICA is fastest and easiest. Civil claims are best where the perpetrator has assets or insurance. Restraining orders are critical for ongoing safety.

Related guides

CICA Criminal Injuries Compensation

If you have been physically or psychologically injured as the result of a violent crime in Great Britain, you may be able to claim compensation from the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA). The scheme is funded by the government and does not depend on the offender being caught or convicted. Awards range from £1,000 to £500,000 depending on the nature and severity of your injuries.

10 min

Restraining Orders and Stalking Protection Orders

Restraining orders and Stalking Protection Orders (SPOs) are court orders designed to protect victims of harassment, stalking, domestic abuse, and related offences. They prohibit the perpetrator from doing certain things — such as contacting you or coming near your home or workplace. Breaching these orders is a criminal offence.

9 min

Victims' Code Rights

The Victims' Code (formally the Code of Practice for Victims of Crime) sets out the minimum level of service that criminal justice agencies — including the police, Crown Prosecution Service, courts, and probation service — must provide to victims of crime in England and Wales. The 2024 edition of the Code was updated to strengthen victims' rights and improve accountability.

8 min

Independent Sexual Violence and Domestic Violence Advisors (ISVAs and IDVAs)

Independent Sexual Violence Advisors (ISVAs) and Independent Domestic Violence Advisors (IDVAs) are free, independent, confidential support workers who guide victims through the criminal justice process and beyond. They are not part of the police, CPS, or social services — their loyalty is to the victim. This guide explains who they are, how to access them, and what they do.

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Disclaimer

The information on this page was correct at the time of writing. Amounts, thresholds, and rules may change. Always check the latest official guidance.