What is legal aid?
Legal aid is money from the government that will pay the fee for a solicitor to act on your behalf. To get legal aid you will need to show that you really need the help of a solicitor and that you cannot afford it. In some cases you may have to contribute to the cost of a solicitor but only when you have the money to do so.
If you are arrested and held in custody at the police station, you have the right to see the duty solicitor. If you are charged with a criminal offence and have to attend court, you’ll automatically get legal aid for legal representation in court if you’re under 16 (or under 18 and in full-time education).
How do I get legal aid?
When it comes to other areas of the law, you will need to check with Civil Legal Advice or a legal aid solicitor whether you qualify for legal aid.
Non-criminal cases may take into consideration the financial circumstances of your parent’s/carer’s in assessing whether you qualify for legal aid.
You can contact Civil Legal Advice on the following number: 0345 345 4345 or visit their website here.
