Yes, if you have a confirmed diagnosis of a disabling mental injury as a direct result of the crime, and that diagnosis comes from either a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist.

Absolutely. We help clients across Scotland, England, and Wales. The CICA is a UK-wide scheme, and our solicitors handle Scottish claims remotely, ensuring the same level of care and support.

Yes.

You can still claim through the CICA scheme even if no one was charged or convicted, as long as the police have evidence showing a crime took place.

Our legal team will help you present your statement clearly and show that you meet the CICA’s “balance of probability” standard.

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.

Yes, so long as there is sufficient evidence that it was non-consensual. This is often made as part of a domestic violence claim, if there has also been physical injury.

Yes. You can still make a CICA claim if there wasn’t a conviction. As long as there’s enough evidence that a crime of violence occurred and you cooperated with the police. We can help you gather the right information and explain what counts as evidence.

Yes. You can still get compensation even if no one was charged or found guilty, as long as you reported the crime to the police and cooperated fully with their investigation.

It may be possible. It will depend on your individual circumstances, however just because the assailant is deceased does not mean you will not be eligible for compensation. Call our specialist Criminal Injury Lawyers on 0113 320 5000 and they will be able to advise you.

No. If you have accepted an award with the CICA then your claim is considered to be finalised. We can apply to re-open on medical grounds but only where there has been such a martial change in the symptoms, that the initial award is unjust.

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.