Simpson Millar: Supporting survivors through civil law

At Simpson Millar, we understand that even thinking about your legal options after abuse can feel overwhelming. For many people, it is not just about the law. It is about being heard, being believed, and beginning to make sense of what has happened. That is where we start. 

We take the time to listen, without judgement and without pressure. Some people come to us ready to take the next step. Others simply want to understand what their options might be. Both are completely valid, and we are here to support each person in a way that feels right for them. 

Our partnership with NAPAC reflects that same approach. Survivors often need more than one kind of support, and having access to both emotional guidance and clear, practical legal advice can make a real difference. By working together, we hope to make civil law feel more accessible and less intimidating for those who may need it. 

When survivors do feel ready to explore their options, there are different routes available. This can include bringing a civil claim against an individual or organisation, or applying to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), which provides compensation for victims of violent crime. For some, this process is about financial support. For others, it is about acknowledgement, accountability, or simply having their experience recognised. 

We are always mindful that there is no ‘right’ time to take that step. Many of the people we speak to have lived with what happened for years, sometimes decades, before speaking about it. There is growing understanding within the law of how trauma can affect the ability to come forward. That shift is important, because it allows space for people to be heard when they are ready, rather than when they feel expected to be. Whilst there are time limits to bring a civil or a CICA claim, claims are often brought out of time. 

We have also seen more awareness of routes such as CICA claims, which can offer an important option where other types of claims may not be possible. Whilst there is still more to be done to ensure people know about these pathways and can access them easily, progress is being made towards a system that better recognises the realities of survivors’ experiences. 

Behind every case is a person who deserves to be treated with care and respect. That is why we invest in training our teams in trauma-informed communication, helping them understand how to approach each conversation with sensitivity and patience. Just as importantly, we make sure our colleagues feel supported in the work they do, so they can give each person the time and attention they deserve. 

Everything we do comes back to one simple aim, to ensure that anyone who reaches out to us feels listened to, supported, and treated with dignity. We know how difficult that first step can be, and how much courage it takes to trust someone with your story. Our responsibility is to meet that trust with care, to listen openly, and to make sure each person feels respected, understood, and never dismissed.