What is my claim worth? - How the Courts value a claim

12 Oct 2026

Making a personal injury claim can be stressful and confusing. One of the most common questions we are asked is, "What is my claim worth?"

While no two cases are the same, the courts follow a structured process to ensure claims are valued fairly. Here’s a simple overview of how compensation is assessed.

General damages

General damages are for non-monetary losses ; the things that affect your day-to-day life, such as:

Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress.
Loss of enjoyment: Reduced ability to enjoy life due to your injuries.

The amount awarded for general damages depends on how severe and long-lasting your injuries are.

Special damages

Special damages cover specific financial losses resulting from your injury. These can include:

Medical expenses: treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Loss of earnings: income lost because you cannot work.
Property damage: repair or replacement of damaged property.
Miscellaneous expenses: such as expenses for medical appointments or home modifications.

Special damages are calculated using the actual costs you have already faced, along with a realistic view of what you will need in the future.

Judicial College Guidelines

The Judicial College Guidelines (JCG) provide a framework for valuing general damages in personal injury claims. These guidelines help ensure consistency and fairness in compensation awards based on the type of injury and severity.

We use the JCG to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. We will then calculate your special damages by reviewing the financial impact of your accident. This will include looking at receipts, invoices and expert reports to make sure that all past and future losses are claimed for.

Bringing it together

Valuing a personal injury claim is a careful process, taking into account both the impact on your life and the financial consequences of your accident. The goal is to make sure you receive fair and reasonable compensation.

If you’ve been injured and are unsure what your claim might be worth, our Personal Injury team is here to give you clear advice and guide you through your options.