Legal Aid is a publicly funded scheme operated by the government to allow low-income people to access legal advice without the fees attached.
How Do I Know If I Will Qualify?
The type of case and your financial circumstances will determine whether you qualify for Legal Aid.
When looking at eligibility in family law matters, the Legal Aid Agency will seek evidence from you about whether you are or have been a victim of domestic abuse. For for children matters, where there is evidence of child abuse.
A Legal Aid solicitor will guide you on this and ensure that you complete the correct forms.
Does Legal Aid cover Family Law Matters?
Family law matters such as divorce, separation financial matters, disputes in respect of children (including cases where social services are involved) and domestic violence are all covered.
Will I Have Access to the Same Level of Solicitor if I Qualify?
You most certainly will, as firms that offer Legal Aid have qualified solicitors to advise on both Legal Aid and privately funded cases similarly. The service provided is of the same standard as if you were to pay privately. The only difference at the outset is that the legal process may not be able to commence straight away if you are required to provide any evidence relating to domestic abuse and your income.
How do I Apply?
The starting point is to find a local solicitor who has been awarded a Legal Aid contract, as they can assist you with eligibility and the evidence required. They will be able to assess your circumstances to see whether or not you will be eligible.
If you cannot visit a local firm of solicitors, you can also contact the Civil Legal Advice team on 0345 345 4345. You can ask to be put through to the Legal Aid experts at Family Law Group. This team will assess your financial circumstances and discuss the evidential requirements and the details of your case with you.
Will I Need Specific Documents as Evidence?
The basic requirements that the Legal Aid Agency will require.
- The appropriate gov.uk legal letter specific to your circumstances or confirming that you are a victim of domestic abuse
- Recent proof of entitlement to any benefits that you may receive
- Recent bank statements showing your monthly income and outgoings
- If you are in any form of employment, your recent payslips
- Proof of any outgoings such as rent or mortgage payments
Do all Firms Offer It?
Not all solicitor firms can offer this service. To determine if your local firm offers this service, you can access the gov.uk website and do a postcode search. This will show you the firms closest to you that can help. Alternatively, you can call the Civil Legal Advice team, who will assess your financial eligibility and provide you with firms that offer this service, both remotely and locally.
We unfortunately do not offer this service. However, if you need help with a private family matter, contact us today.