Compensation
How to Claim Compensation
By Ewan Sanderson
Jun 19, 2004, 00:58

How to claim Compensation

If you injured yourself at work, the most sensible course of action would be to contact your trade union, as they may well be willing to act on your behalf.

Otherwise, to fund your claim you have the choice of:

• 'No win, no fee'
• Legal expense insurance
• Legal Aid

'No win, no fee'

'No win, no fee' has been something of a burgeoning business in the UK in recent years, with many companies offering to take on claims that they feel have a reasonable chance of success. They promise not to ask for any fee unless the case is successful and even arrange insurance to prevent you from paying costs should you lose.

In many cases 'No win, no fee' is a perfectly reasonable route to take, but do beware - many organisations are seeking to make a profit out of your misfortune. You may find that, while they are as good as their word not to charge you a penny if your claim fails, should you win, they will be looking for an extremely healthy chunk of any compensation you receive. You should seek advice from a specialist solicitor.

Legal expense insurance

There are a huge variety of different policies available from a host of different companies. Be sure to have a good hunt around. You could start by looking at the legal expense insurance companies we have listed.

Legal aid

This is presently being withdrawn from accident claimants but may still be available subject to three tests.

• Cost/Benefit Test (assessment of potential costs and potential value of the claim)
• Merit test (assessment of case's chances of success)
• Means test (assessment of your ability to pay)