We are contracted by the Legal Aid Agency to provide legal aid work in the following categories:
- Crime
- Immigration & Asylum
- Family including Care Proceedings
- Modern Slavery
If you are arrested and find yourself in a Police Station, you are automatically entitled to free and independent legal advice. This also applies if you are interviewed by appointment with the Police (under caution), UK Border Agency (formerly Customs and Excise) or the Benefits Agencies.
Not everyone is eligible for legal aid. In order to be eligible you have to pass a means test (which is based on income) and a merits test. If you claim certain benefits you may meet the means test. If you earn an income, evidence will need to be provided for your application to be considered by the Legal Aid Agency.
The merits test is usually met if it is in the interests of justice for legal aid to be granted and there is evidence of domestic violence, this can be through a criminal conviction at Court, a non-molestation order, a GP letter or letter from a refuge. Legal aid can also be granted in cases where people suffer from mental health issues. Again, evidence of this has to be provided. If you are unsure as to whether you can apply for legal aid, then please contact us.