Civil Damages Liability – an overlooked outcome of criminal offences

Bringing into consideration Civil Damages Liability for criminal offences.

When advising on the consequences of a criminal conviction, the focus is primarily on the immediate sentence, which can range from a discharge to life imprisonment with no prospect of release. One aspect often overlooked is the potential for civil damages liability. 

Of course, many other things must be considered, such as banning or protective orders, the necessity of disclosing convictions to employers, and an almost endless array of other possible fact-specific orders.

In many cases, harm can be addressed through compensation. However, in situations where the harm is significant and the calculation of damages is beyond the competence of a criminal court, no order will be made.

This can leave a victim in a position where they need to seek redress elsewhere, potentially leading to significant financial implications.

Increased use of civil courts

Over recent years, we have noted an increased willingness on the part of victims to use the civil courts to seek damages, and this will be of importance to any defendant who has financial resources that could be targeted, such as equity in a home.

A recent example of this involved the disgraced singer Paul Gadd, perhaps better known as Gary Glitter. Gadd was convicted of serious sex offences and is currently serving a lengthy prison sentence.

The High Court heard that:

“The sexual assaults inflicted upon the claimant by the defendant [Gadd] have caused the claimant to suffer psychological injury and losses.

She maintains that she has endured the following pain, suffering and loss of amenity: (a) repeatedly being sexually assaulted and raped by the defendant; (b) being humiliated and coercively controlled by the defendant; (c) consequential complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) and recurrent depressive disorder.”

The damages claimed were:

• General damages for her pain, suffering and loss of amenity.
• Aggravated damages.
• Treatment as recommended by a Doctor (amounting to over £9,000).
• Education and employment disadvantage by reason of her psychological injuries, which is continuing, and she claims damages for loss of earnings.

The claimant, in this case, was successful, and Gadd was ordered to pay the sum of £508,800.

It may be tempting to try to transfer any assets to another person, but this will likely not work, as a court can overturn transactions designed to defeat known or anticipated claims.

When choosing a solicitor to advise, it is essential to choose a firm that is equipped to present the whole picture, as this may impact the decisions you make during the life of a case, particularly in relation to a plea.

How We Can Help

Do not hesitate to contact us regarding any criminal legal representation. We can tell you whether you are eligible for legal aid and, if not, outline the alternative options available to you. You can contact us on 0161 477 1121 or email us for more information.