What help is there to cover legal costs?

We are fortunate in the UK to have a fair, accessible, and transparent justice system underpinning our society. Although legal advice is expensive, systems such as legal aid ensure anyone has the right to access legal advice in the first instance, even if they can’t afford it. While certain criteria apply – for example, a person must have a strong case, and the problem must be serious – legal aid is a key component of our country’s justice system and ensures no one is left to fight their legal case alone.

When is legal aid applicable?

It is advisable to seek legal aid as soon as you realise you may need advice; for example, this might be following arrest or being taken in for police questioning, when prompt legal advice is wholly necessary. Legal aid in these circumstances is free and universal.

Alternatively, seeking legal aid is wise if a person is in a serious, dangerous situation, such as if they are at risk of losing their home and being made homeless. It may also be used if family mediation is needed or if one or more parties within the family unit feel as though they are at serious risk of harm or violence.

Legal aid is available only if a person can prove that he or she cannot afford to pay for legal advice. It may be necessary to show proof of finances to confirm this, such as details of your income and living costs.

What other sources of legal support are there?

Another important part of our fair justice system is the universal right to pursue a litigation claim. Anyone who feels they have been treated unfairly by another party is eligible to bring about a litigation case. This comes with a cost, but litigation funding is available to assist with this. Anyone wishing to pursue a litigation claim should access expert advice from a specialist such as //www.novo-modo.co.uk/litigation-funding.

The GOV.UK website makes finding legal aid providers easy, as an online searchable register of providers is available.