What to Expect from Your CICA Claim Solicitors
If your CICA claim feels stuck, you’re not alone. At Winston Solicitors, our UK-wide legal team helps victims of violent crime get the compensation they deserve faster and with less stress. With over 3,000 five-star reviews, we know how to cut through delays and get answers from the CICA.
- Get expert help with your CICA claim UK-wide
- Fix claim delays and communication issues fast
- Understand what the CICA needs and why
- Appeal unfair or rejected CICA decisions
- Reduce stress with trusted legal guidance
- Recover the full compensation you deserve
Get expert legal help for your CICA claim
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a Government scheme that helps innocent victims of violent crime claim compensation. While the system was designed to be straightforward, many people find it confusing and hard to navigate. The language can be complex, and delays are common.
That’s where we can help. Winston Solicitors has years of experience handling CICA claims for clients across the UK, from initial applications to appeals.
Common problems people face with CICA claims
It’s completely normal to feel frustrated or lost during your claim. Many people tell us they’ve struggled with:
- Long delays or lack of updates from the CICA
- Requests for documents or details they don’t have
- Little explanation about what’s needed or why
- Difficulty proving mental health or income loss
- The emotional impact of revisiting a traumatic event
I instructed Winston to apply for CICA on my behalf after spending an extremely long time in the criminal justice system. I didn't want the stress of dealing with it myself, plus, I needed an out of time waiver which seemed like it might be tricky to navigate alone. Keertan and Heidi dealt with my claim and I cannot fault them. They gave me realistic and logical advice, explained any potential issues and stayed in regular contact with updates about where my claim was. They helped me get an award without any further stress that reflected what had happened to me. I can't thank them enough
Client, Manchester
Why your CICA claim might be taking so long
You’re not imagining it. Many claims move slowly. Backlogs, staff shortages, and waiting on police or medical evidence can all add months to the process.
At Winston Solicitors, we stay in contact with the CICA and chase progress regularly. If your claim isn’t moving, we know the right steps to escalate your case and get you answers.
We understand how stressful it is to wait for justice. Our role is to guide you through the system with care, persistence, and expert knowledge.
Stacey Flegg, Head of CICA at Winston Solicitors
How Winston Solicitors can make a difference
Having a lawyer on your side means your claim stays on track from day one. We know what information the CICA needs, and how to present it clearly, so your case isn’t delayed.
We will:
- Explain what the CICA is asking for and why
- Help you respond to sensitive or complex requests
- Make sure your mental or physical injuries are fully recognised
- Track your case and push for regular updates
Even if you’ve already started your claim, it’s not too late to get help. Around 1 in 5 of our CICA enquiries come from people who began their claim alone but now want expert support.
The CICA made things difficult for me… I was under so much mental pressure. Winston Solicitors gave me the strength and knowledge to get through it.
Client, Birmingham
How to get help with your CICA claim (Step-by-Step)
- Contact our CICA team online or by phone
- We’ll review your situation and explain your options
- If you decide to work with us, we’ll handle all CICA communication
- We’ll keep you updated and fight for the best possible award
We make the process simple, supportive, and fully transparent, wherever you live in the UK.
Ready to move your claim forward?
If your CICA claim has stalled, or you’re unsure what to do next, we’re here to help. Speak directly with one of our CICA claim specialists today.
Call us on 0113 320 5000
Email cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk
Or start your CICA claim review online in minutes.
Winston Solicitors - when service wins. Trusted by 3,000+ clients across the UK.
The Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) is a government body that pays compensation to innocent victims of violent crime in England, Scotland, and Wales. You can apply directly, or our solicitors can help manage the process for you.
Many claims are delayed because of backlogs, missing evidence, or police checks. The CICA won’t usually update you unless they need information. Our team can chase progress, escalate delays, and make sure nothing is holding your claim back.
Yes, absolutely. Around 20% of our clients come to us after starting their own claim. We can step in at any stage, review your file, and help get things moving again.
Most straightforward claims take around 12–18 months, but complex cases or those involving medical reports can take longer. Working with a solicitor often helps reduce delays and ensures your claim is fully prepared from the start.
If your claim is refused or you receive an unfair award, you can appeal. Our solicitors can review the CICA’s decision, gather extra evidence, and represent you during the appeal to improve your chances of success.
The amount depends on your injuries and how they’ve affected your life. The CICA uses a tariff system, but we can help make sure every aspect of your suffering is recognised — from physical injuries to lost income and trauma.
You can reach our CICA specialists UK-wide by calling 0113 320 5000 or emailing cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk. We’ll listen, explain your options, and support you every step.
