GBH with intent is categorised as a serious crime. It is the most serious form of assault anybody can commit. If you are the victim of GBH with intent, it is likely that you have had to take time away from your personal and professional life to recover from your physical and psychological injuries. If that is the case, then you should be aware that you have the legal right to pursue the alleged for their crimes. You have the legal right to make a claim for financial compensation, irrespective of the authority’s own action.
Compensation for GBH with intent
It is highly likely that the assault you experienced will lead to the alleged receiving a prison sentence, which is highly unlikely to be suspended. It is also likely that the guilty party will be ordered to pay damages to you, although this is not always the case.
You can pursue the guilty party on your own accord, but to do so, you will need a lawyer who specialises in criminal and personal injury law, so that a strong case can be built. When it comes to determining a level of compensation for you, your lawyer will consider the seriousness of the assault, and consider the injuries you have sustained. Also, your lawyer will consider how your injuries have will affect your life. The worse your injuries are, and the more trauma you have and will suffer, then the more compensation you can claim.
Calculating compensation
You will be awarded a higher level of compensation for injuries sustained to the face that leave permanent scarring, or injuries that caused serious complications, such as internal bleeding or haemorrhaging. To get a true estimated pay-out, speak with an injury lawyer.
GBH with intent injury claims process
The injury claims process is designed to account for the fact that you will have received medical attention for your injuries, and for the fact that it might take you a while to come to terms with the assault and your injuries. For this reason, you can make a claim anytime within three years of the assault. However, it is important not to wait too long, since claims relating to personal injury become time-barred after three years under the Limitation Act 1980. This will unfortunately prevent you from making your GBH with intent claim.
The claims process itself will not intrude with your recovery. Your only input will be an initial interview with your solicitor, and telephone communication. However, depending on the nature of your injuries, you may also need to attend a medical examination. This will be set up by your solicitor, and it will take place 2-3 weeks into the personal injury claims process.
