Legal Aid

Criminal Law

There has been much uncertainty surrounding the provision of Legal Aid in criminal proceedings, with many firms closing as a result. However we are firmly committed to providing advice and representation of the highest quality to clients who require the assistance of Legal Aid.

What many people do not realise is that everyone, regardless of their finances, is entitled to a solicitor of their choice to represent them free of charge when interviewed at a Police Station. As a result we have representatives on call 24 hours per day, 7 days per week in order to assist anyone who requires our services. If you are the subject of an investigation by another agency, other than the Police, you may be entitled to Legal Aid but this would be based on your income level. You can read more about Legal Aid for Police Station representation here.

If you are required to attend court in respect of any allegations then we can apply for Legal Aid on your behalf, this is assessed on your financial circumstances but also the seriousness of the case. Cases before the Magistrates’ Court are assessed purely on your level of income – read more here. If your case was to be dealt with at the Crown Court then Legal Aid is available in nearly all Crown Court cases, even when you are not financially eligible at the Magistrates Court, but you may be required to make monthly contributions towards the cost of the Legal Aid. If you have in excess of £30,000 in assets/capital you could be required to pay contributions from this. If you were found not guilty at the Crown Court any contributions you had made would be refunded to you with interest. You can find out more about Legal Aid for Crown Court here.

If you would like further information or assistance on any Criminal Law matter, please contact our experienced team on 01978 291000 or email [email protected] and we will get straight back to you.

You can find more out about qualifying for legal aid here.