Legal Aid

Legal aid can help meet the costs of legal advice, family mediation and representation in a court or tribunal. 
You will usually need to show that: 
  • your case is eligible for legal aid 
  • the problem is serious 
  • you cannot afford to pay for legal costs 
You could for example get legal aid if: 
  • you or your family are at risk of abuse or serious harm, for example domestic violence or forced marriage 
  • you are at risk of homelessness or losing your home 
  • you have been accused of a crime, face prison or detention 
  • you are being discriminated against 
  • you need family mediation 
  • you are adding legal arguments or bringing a case under the Human Rights Act 
You will usually need to show that you cannot afford to pay for this help. You may have to pay some money towards the legal costs of your case or pay costs back later. 
 
Check if you can get legal aid to get help with civil cases. Your legal adviser will usually apply for legal aid on your behalf. 

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