Suffering abuse is deeply traumatic. The psychological and physical impact can last a lifetime. While no legal action can undo what’s happened, making an abuse claim can help acknowledge your suffering and hold the individual abusers or organisations responsible.
At Watermans, our specialist abuse claims solicitors are here to support you through the legal process with care, empathy and professionalism. We understand the sensitive nature of abuse cases and are committed to helping survivors acc
"I was very apprehensive starting a claim, but I was helped through every step. I found it a very easy process and was very pleased with the outcome. Watermans were professional and efficient in handling the claim. They made it very easy for me!"
S Costelloe, Personal Injury Claim
You are entitled to claim compensation for the abuse suffered,
whether physical, sexual or emotional.
Survivors of abuse may experience physical injuries, psychological trauma,
and negative long-term effects.
At Watermans, our personal injury team treats every case with confidentiality, sensitivity and expertise,
to help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Everything we do at Watermans is about getting you the resolution you need
and providing straightforward legal advice. It should be that simple.
Abuse Cases
The effects of neglect and abuse can be devastating. Survivors often feel isolated, alone, and unsure of what to do next. If you or a family member is a survivor, our specialist abuse solicitors are here to help.
We understand how difficult it is for our clients to relive past experiences, and recovery can be a long process. Rest assured, we will be at your side every step of the way. Our abuse claims lawyers treat each client with dignity and compassion.
We’ll take as much time as you need within a confidential environment. We know that no one would consent to physical abuse, and our legal team handles each case with the empathy it demands. We’ll also refer you to dedicated support organisations to help you at every stage.
Most abuse compensation claims have helped our clients recover and provided much-needed closure.
Types of Abuse Claims
While financial compensation cannot undo the harm caused or erase the lasting impact of the abuse, it is needed to support your journey forward. Compensation offers practical assistance to improve aspects of your life and aid your recovery.
Here are the main categories of abuse claims we can assist you with:
We believe survivors deserve answers, support and compensation for the pain and suffering they’ve endured. Our expert lawyers work tirelessly to ensure that each civil claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is handled with the utmost care.
We’ll assist with a claim made against the abuser or the organisation they worked for, if that organisation is partially responsible. We are committed to upholding your human rights and securing the compensation you are entitled to.
Making a Claim
Abuse compensation claims are complex issues requiring sensitivity and careful handling by specialist lawyers. We understand how difficult these situations can be. That’s why we handle the legal process so that you don’t have to.
Making an abuse claim typically involves:
How Much Compensation?
As with all claims, the compensation amount varies on a case-by-case basis.
The compensation you may be entitled to includes:
Why Watermans?
At Watermans, we understand the severity of your situation. Surviving abuse is harrowing, and the mental scars last a lifetime.
Our dedicated abuse claims solicitors are here to support you with compassion and care. We work closely with you throughout the process, helping you seek the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our associate solicitors understand that trust is the foundation of any successful legal partnership. That’s why we offer clear, straightforward legal advice, ensuring you are informed and confident throughout the process.
We are committed to seeking justice and achieving the best outcome for you. Every detail of your case is handled with care, discretion and the utmost sensitivity.
Each year, we represent thousands of clients throughout Scotland, securing millions of pounds in compensation. We also work on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you don’t suffer any financial risk if your claim is unsuccessful.
For most personal injury claims, including abuse cases, there’s a three-year time limit. This means you are required to have raised a court action from the date of when the abuse happened. However, time limits for historic abuse claims may differ depending on the circumstances and on whether a civil court action can be raised.
The Scottish Government introduced legislation which has effectively removed the time bar for child abuse claims. If the date of your abuse was before the 26th September 1964, we are unable to pursue the claim due to the Limitation (Childhood Abuse) (Scotland) Act. However, if the abuse continued beyond this date, you may be eligible to make a claim.
It is crucial to consult with our abuse compensation solicitors as soon as possible, regardless of when the abuse occurred. We can advise on the specific time limit applicable to your case.
Our abuse team understands how sensitive and personal these cases are. We know that financial risk can make it even harder to take legal action. That’s why we offer free initial advice to help you understand your options and seek justice.
If you decide to proceed, you can make a no-win, no-fee agreement with us, ensuring that you won’t face any upfront legal costs. All aspects of our fee funding structures are discussed during your initial consultation. This approach allows you to pursue your claim without worrying about financial barriers.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government-funded scheme that provides compensation to victims of violent crime. This includes survivors of physical and sexual abuse.
If you do not wish to pursue a civil claim or if the abuser cannot be identified, applying through CICA may be the most suitable route. Our team can help you through the CICA process and ensure your application is as strong as possible.
You can still make a claim, even if the abuse wasn’t reported to the police. While a police report can sometimes strengthen your case, it is not a requirement. Understandably, many survivors are hesitant to come forward.
Note, however, that a police report is needed when applying for compensation through CICA.
Yes, you may claim if abuse happened within your family. These cases can be particularly difficult due to the emotional complexities involved, but we’re here to support you with care and discretion.
Focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities of your abuse claim.
Contact Watermans abuse claims solicitors today for straightforward legal advice.
The figures quoted are a rough guide to show you the amount you could receive as compensation for your injury. Our solicitors will advise you in more detail about your specific claim.
Your claim could be worth...
Claim Worth
The figures quoted are a rough guide to show you the amount you could receive as compensation for your injury. Our solicitors will advise you in more detail about your specific claim.
Everything we do at Watermans is about getting you the resolution you need and making that process straightforward. Start the process by sending us your details below or calling us on 0131 555 7055
“Making a claim for compensation can be such a daunting process for people, so I try to make it as straightforward and easy to understand as I can for them.”
Susanne McGraw, Head of Personal Injury
