In some cases, yes. If you were a child at the time, reported the incident late, or had serious mental health problems, the CICA may extend the deadline. It depends on your circumstances and supporting evidence.

No, you don't. The CICA expect an application to be made as soon as reasonably possible. The burden of proof for the CICA is lesser than what is needed in court; therefore, providing the police have agreed to investigate your allegations; this should be sufficient to proceed with an application. The CICA apply a limitation of 2 years* from the date of reporting to make a claim for compensation; therefore, waiting for the outcome of a court hearing could sometimes jeopardise your position.

When asked by the police if you wish to press charges against your assailant, you must agree to do so to be able to claim compensation for your injuries. The CICA expect all applicants to act as far as reasonably practicable in bringing their assailant to justice, and therefore any reluctance to assist the police in securing a prosecution, may see your claim rejected by the CICA.

No, most claims for sexual offences can be settled without medical reports. Claims for physical injuries can be settled using your medical records from your own doctors.

Experience tells us that it is beneficial to the overall success of your claim, to instruct a solicitor at the very start. The CICA do not offer a solicitor to you and you are able to apply directly; however, without extensive knowledge of the scheme we see too often that applicants who have applied directly, face trouble and stumbling blocks along the way. By instructing Winston Solicitors you are receiving specialist advice from our Criminal Injury Lawyers, representation throughout your claim, including at Review and Appeal stage if required. We will ensure that you achieve the maximum award for your injuries, including loss of earnings and special expenses where applicable.

You can appeal on your own, but having a specialist solicitor often makes the process smoother and improves your chances of success.

You don’t have to use a solicitor, but many people find it helps. CICA rules and evidence requirements can be complex, and mistakes can delay or reduce your award. Our CICA solicitors handle everything for you, from checking eligibility to appealing unfair decisions.

Not always.

Many survivors receive compensation based on the police report alone.

However, if you have medical or counselling evidence, including it may strengthen your claim and help you secure a higher award.

Yes. The CICA requires that domestic abuse or violence is reported to the police and that you cooperate with the investigation. If you’re worried about reporting, our solicitors can guide you through the process safely and confidentially.

No. You should not wait for a criminal trial to end. The CICA deadline runs from the incident date, not the court outcome.

No, if the police investigation does not result in a conviction, or the alleged perpetrator is not convicted this does not necessarily mean you cannot claim compensation.

You can use our CICA time limit calculator online or contact us directly. We’ll check your dates and tell you straight away if you can still claim.

We’ll review your case in detail, help you prepare your statement, collect any useful evidence, and make sure you’re placed in the highest CICA tariff that applies to your situation.

We handle everything on a no win, no fee basis and provide full emotional support throughout your claim.

We provide confidential legal advice UK-wide, helping survivors understand their rights and options for justice or compensation. Our experienced solicitors guide you with care, clarity, and complete discretion.

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.

You can contact us through our contact form or call us on 0113 320 5000.

Here are two stages to requesting a review. In the first instance, you usually have 56 days from the date of your decision letter to request a review.

The second stage is the appeal (tribunal), which is 90 days from the review (2nd) decision.

If you miss this, there are limited exceptions, so make sure to contact us quickly for advice.

This will depend on the circumstances of your injury; however, as a general rule; you have 2 years from the date of the incident to submit an application*. If you are under the age of 18 (or were under the age of 18) when the matter was reported to the police, then you have 2 years from the date of your 18th Birthday. If the criminal injury occurred whilst you were under the age of 18, but the matter was reported to the police as an adult, you have two years from the date the matter was reported to the police.

*There are exceptional circumstances where these time limits can be waived.

The usual time limit is two years from when the abuse happened or was reported. However, the courts often allow historic claims where trauma delayed disclosure. Winston Solicitors can assess your situation and explain your options.

In most cases, you must apply to the CICA within two years of reporting the abuse to the police.

The CICA’s normal time limit is two years from the date you reported the crime to the police.

If the assault happened when you were a child, or if trauma delayed your ability to come forward, this time limit can often be extended.

Winston Solicitors will help you show why your sexual abuse claim should still be accepted.

Most appeals take between 3–9 months, depending on complexity. We’ll keep you updated so you always know what to expect.

Most claims take 6 to 18 months to complete, depending on how serious your injuries are and whether CICA needs more evidence. We’ll keep your case moving and update you at every stage.

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.