Funding a case can be either by paying our private client costs, or subject to qualifying criteria by Legal Aid.
All people detained or attending any Police Station in England & Wales for an interview under caution are entitled to consult with, and be represented by a solicitor free of charge during their time at the Police Station.
On occasion, other bodies (such as a local council) will interview people under caution, in those circumstances free advice and assistance subject to a financial eligibility test. If you do not qualify for free advice and assistance we can usually agree a fixed fee for private fee paying representation.
In the Magistrates Court, the situation is slightly different, you may be entitled to Legal Aid subject to a merits and financial eligibility test. If your disposable income exceeds the limit set by the Legal Aid Agency then you will not qualify for Legal Aid and, if you want to instruct a solicitor, you will have to pay privately. We offer a competitive service and can attend the Magistrates’ Court with you from £300+VAT.
Legal Aid in the Crown Court is means tested. This means you will normally be granted Legal Aid but, depending on your means, you may be required to pay a financial contribution. In some cases that can be a significant amount and we can in those circumstances advise whether private fee paying would be more cost effective. There are some cases in the Crown Court where Legal Aid is not available and we can assist usually by way of an agreed fixed fee.
