Civil court figures show progress, but injured people still face a year-long wait for justice
RELEASE: IMMEDIATELY
Justice within reach
The representative body for the claimant industry. Setting standards, strengthening its voice, and supporting access to justice.
Specialist representation.
Standards you can trust.
Access to justice when it matters most.
In Memoriam Matthew Maxwell-Scott
With gratitude and respect, we honour the memory of Matthew Maxwell-Scott – a valued leader, colleague and champion of access to justice. His contribution to the Consumer Legal Association and the wider consumer legal sector will continue to inspire our work.
Read the full statement in our News section.
For enquiries, please contact:
Mark Duffell
Head of Policy
The Consumer Legal Association (CLA)
mduffell@consumerlegal.org.uk
+44 7969 080272
The Consumer Legal Association is the representative body for the claimant industry, bringing together law firms, medical reporting organisations, insurers and associated businesses that support individuals seeking redress through the civil justice system.
- Setting and upholding standards for high-quality, ethical claimant representation
- Representing the interests of the industry with policymakers, regulators and stakeholders
- Championing the value of specialist, dedicated support for individuals seeking redress
A sector delivering outcomes, accountability, and real value.
£5.5bn+
Industry value
100k+
Consumers supported each year
10k+
Professionals across the sector
The claimant sector protects rights, improves standards, and enables access to rehabilitation and support.
When people suffer loss or harm, access to redress is essential. CLA members support individuals through complex legal processes, securing fair outcomes while helping to improve standards across healthcare, business and wider society.
We are establishing a clear set of standards for claimant services – creating a benchmark for conduct, transparency and client care, backed by strong governance and independent oversight.
Access to justice
Supporting individuals to pursue claims when they have suffered loss, regardless of complexity or circumstance.
High-quality representation
Delivering ethical, effective and professional support that achieves the best possible outcomes for claimants.
Informed policy and advocacy
Providing insight and evidence to policymakers to ensure decisions reflect the realities of the claimant sector.
What CLA stands for
We set expectations for conduct, client care, and transparency, helping build trust in the claimant sector and ensuring consistently high standards.
Client-first practice
Clear communication, informed decisions and appropriate support throughout the claims process.
Standards and accountability
A benchmark for high-quality, ethical and effective claimant representation.
Governance and oversight
Strong governance arrangements to maintain independence, rigour and accountability across the sector.
Case study
Legal challenge secured support for John after collision caused by an untraced driver
After a serious collision caused by an untraced driver, John was left with multiple fractures, PTSD and unable to work. When the Motor Insurers’ Bureau initially rejected his claim, CLA member firm Express Solicitors successfully challenged the decision, exposing flaws in the evidence relied upon and securing an appeal victory that held the untraced driver responsible. The outcome enabled John to access compensation, interim financial support and vital treatment to aid his recovery. His case highlights the importance of specialist claimant representation in ensuring injured people can challenge unfair decisions and obtain the support they need to rebuild their lives.
Latest news
£2m FCA campaign risks steering claimants away from legal advice
The Consumer Legal Association (CLA) is deeply concerned that the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) new £2 million advertising campaign presents getting professional legal advice on motor finance compensation as an unnecessary expense.
Statement re Matthew Maxwell Scott
‘It is with profound sadness that we have to share that our CEO, Matthew Maxwell Scott, passed away suddenly at the weekend.
Become a member
Join the organisations shaping the future of the claimant sector. CLA membership demonstrates a commitment to high standards, consumer outcomes and a strong collective voice.
- Help shape the future of the claimant industry
- Be part of a respected, representative network
- Contribute to raising standards and improving outcomes