Who is eligible for legal aid?

Posted by familylaw on 20th March 2015

Last updated 30th June 2021

There is a misconception that legal aid is no longer available for divorce and finance cases.

The truth in that legal aid is still available where you or your family are at risk of abuse or serious harm e.g. domestic abuse or forced marriage or where you wish to attend mediation.

Domestic Abuse

To qualify for legal aid you have to evidence the abuse by providing one of the following:

1. A letter from the Police
2. A letter from your GP or other health professional
3. There is in an injunction, or has been an injunction, within the last 24 months.
4. There is a conviction against the other party for domestic abuse.
5. A letter from social services
6. A MARAC referral
7. You are staying at a refuge

You can obtain the evidence by following the link to sample letters which you can send to the relevant agencies

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sample-letters-to-get-evidence-of-domestic-violence#letters-to-send-to-medical-social-and-support-services

Once you have obtained the necessary evidence you then need to see if you are financially eligible and you can access the legal aid calculator here

https://www.gov.uk/work-out-who-qualifies-for-civil-legal-aid

Mediation

If you wish to attend mediation to resolve finances as a result of the breakdown of your relationship then Legal Aid Help with Mediation is still available if you qualify financially.

Mediators will meet you to assess whether you qualify.  Mediation is a process you have alongside legal advice.

Call us today to arrange a free half hour appointment to talk through your options with our legal aid solicitors Exeter 01392 421 777 or Plymouth 01752 674999.

Need some advice? Get in touch today