Can I switch from a claims management company to a solicitor?

In many cases, yes — but you need to check your existing contract with the CMC carefully. Most CMC contracts include a termination clause, and some include a fee payable if you cancel (which may be capped under FCA rules). If your CMC has done little or no work on your claim, and the contract allows termination, you may be able to switch. A solicitor can advise you on the termination process and whether there are any liability issues before you switch.

What is a claims management company (CMC)?

A claims management company is a business that handles claims on your behalf — similar in some ways to a solicitor, but not a law firm. CMCs can handle certain types of claim (including financial mis-selling claims) but cannot issue court proceedings or provide legal advice in the same way a regulated solicitor can. All CMCs must be authorised by the FCA, though the quality of service varies significantly.

What is the difference between a CMC and a solicitor for pension claims?

Both can submit FOS complaints and handle the claims process up to a point. Key differences: solicitors are legally qualified and regulated by the SRA; they can issue court proceedings if needed; they carry professional indemnity insurance; they are subject to strict professional conduct rules; and they can advise on legal strategy, limitation periods, and complex legal issues in a way a CMC cannot. For large or complex pension claims, a solicitor is generally more appropriate.

What if my CMC has already submitted a complaint — can I still switch?

If a complaint has already been submitted to the firm or referred to the FOS, the situation is more complex. You may be able to change representation mid-process, but the FOS will need to be informed and the CMC may still have a fee entitlement for work done. We can advise you on the specific position in your case.

My CMC hasn't done anything for months — what are my rights?

CMCs are regulated by the FCA and must treat customers fairly. If your CMC has failed to update you, is not progressing your claim, or is not acting in your best interests, you have the right to complain to the CMC directly. If you are not satisfied with the CMC's response, you can complain to the FCA or the Financial Ombudsman Service (which now covers CMC complaints).

Can I still claim if a CMC already submitted a claim that was rejected?

Possibly. If the original claim was rejected and you are still within time limits, there may be scope to reconsider the approach, resubmit with better evidence, or explore a different route (e.g. legal action rather than FOS). A solicitor can review the rejected claim, identify whether the grounds were properly presented, and advise whether any further action is available.

What fees does a CMC charge compared to a solicitor?

CMC fees and solicitor fees are both typically charged on a no win, no fee basis as a percentage of compensation recovered. For FCA-regulated claims, there are limits on what a CMC can charge. Solicitors are regulated by the SRA and must also comply with FCA rules in this context. The key difference is not the fee structure but the level of legal expertise, accountability, and the ability to pursue court proceedings if needed.

Already Used a Claims Management Company? What Are Your Options?

Nadeem PervazSolicitor, Edward & Amaury Solicitors SRA RegulatedFirm SRA No. 800525

Nadeem Pervazis a solicitor at Edward & Amaury Solicitors, a law firm authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Content is reviewed for legal accuracy and compliance with FCA guidance and SRA conduct standards.

Published: September 2026About the firm

TL;DR — Quick Summary

▸Using a CMC does not prevent you switching to a solicitor — check your contract for termination rights and any fee obligations.
▸Solicitors are legally qualified and can issue court proceedings, provide legal advice, and handle complex cases in a way a CMC cannot.
▸If a CMC is not progressing your claim, you can complain to the CMC, then to the FOS, which now covers CMC complaints.
▸A rejected CMC claim does not necessarily mean your case is over — a solicitor can review whether the grounds were properly presented.
▸For large DB transfer, SIPP, or public sector pension claims, solicitor-led representation typically delivers better outcomes.

Many people first approach a claims management company (CMC) about a pension mis-selling claim, only to find the process is slower or less satisfying than expected. If you are unhappy with your CMC's progress, or simply want a second opinion, you may have more options than you realise — including switching to a solicitor.

Quick Answer

Using a CMC first doesn't close off your options. Check your contract for termination rights, and contact us for a free assessment — we can advise on whether and how to switch, without obligation.

CMC vs Solicitor — What's the Difference?

Factor	CMC	Solicitor
Regulated by	FCA	SRA (and FCA for claims work)
Can issue court proceedings	No	Yes
Can provide legal advice	No	Yes
Professional indemnity	Required by FCA rules	Required by SRA
Can advise on limitation	No	Yes
Can pursue complex claims	Limited	Yes — including Court of Appeal, Supreme Court cases

See also our full guide on solicitor vs direct claim.

Signs You Should Consider Switching

Your CMC has not provided a meaningful update in several months

Your CMC cannot tell you the current status of your FOS case

You have been asked to sign documents you don't fully understand

Your CMC cannot advise you on time limits or legal strategy

The claim was rejected and your CMC has not explained next steps

Your potential compensation is large enough to warrant solicitor-level expertise

Already Used a Claims Management Company? What Are Your Options?

CMC vs Solicitor — What's the Difference?

Signs You Should Consider Switching

Frequently Asked Questions

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