We are pleased to inform you that we are contracted with the Legal Aid Agency and have a Legal Aid Franchise in respect of the following areas of law:

• Crime
• Family Law – Public Law Proceedings (Care proceedings, domestic violence)
• Housing Law

Legal Aid in Criminal Matters
In order to qualify for legal aid at both Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court matters, two tests must be satisfied:

1. Interest of Justice Test
This test considers the “merits” of the case, for example, the person’s previous convictions, the nature ofthe offence and the risk of imprisonment.

2. Means Test
This test considers your financial circumstances, for example, your household income, capital and
outgoings.

The purpose of both test is to ascertain whether or not you qualify for legal aid.

Please note that since 27 January 2014, a financial eligibility threshold was introduced to Crown Court trials. This means that if your annual household disposable income is £37,500 or more, you may not qualify for legal aid.

During the initial advice, our team will go through your finances and advise you whether or not you will qualify for Legal Aid.

If you do not qualify for Legal Aid, we will introduce you to our flexible fixed payment scheme and provide you with a number of options. If you would like to find out more about our flexible fixed payment scheme, please contact us on 0204 529 9394.

Legal Aid in Family Law Matters
Legal aid has been significantly restricted in family matters. It is only available in respect of matters involving domestic violence and involvement of social services in children matters.

You may be eligible for legal aid if you are a victim of domestic violence or are divorcing/separating from an abusive partner. If you are able to provide evidence of domestic violence, then you may be eligible for legal aid under this exemption for assistance in respect of divorce, child contact and financial orders.

Similarly, you may be eligible for legal aid with issues such as child contact or removal of parental responsibility. You must provide evidence to show that your child is at risk of abuse/neglect.

Legal Aid in Housing Law Matters
We have contracts with the Legal Aid Agency to provide advice, assistance and representation in relation to housing issues in the office and at the at the County Courts. Eligibility is subject to means and merit tests.