What is legal aid?
Legal aid is a system of government funding for those who cannot afford to pay for legal advice and representation. It is administered by the LEGAL SERVICES COMMISSION.
Mackesys has specialised in legal aid and work since our foundation over 20 years ago. We are one of the leading providers of family legal aid in London. The Legal Services Commission grants franchises in different areas of law to firms who meet its stringent standards for quality service provision. There are two forms of public funding which are Legal help and Legal representation.
Legal help
Legal Help means Legal advice and assistance from a solicitor who has a contract with the Legal Services Commission. We can give general advice, write letters, negotiate and advise you if court proceedings may be necessary.
Legal Representation
This is a form of public funding you need in order to take or defend court proceedings. Although the Legal Services Commission can impose limitations and conditions on the extent of funding in principle it can cover all work needed to take proceedings to trial and beyond.
Who can apply?
To get public funding you must satisfy a legal merits test and financial eligibility test. For the financial test your income and savings must be below a certain limit. If you live with a partner or are married your partner or spouses income and capital will be added to yours (unless there is a dispute between you). If you are between the lower and upper financial limits you may be asked to pay a contribution. This may be a monthly payment throughout the life of the case.
If you are in receipt of income support or Job seekers allowance then you will almost certainly be entitled to public funding (unless your capital is above the prescribed rates).
If you are a parent involved in care proceedings you are entitled to public funding whatever your means.
How can I apply?
For more information please contact us. We will be able to advise you on how to proceed during your first interview.
Alternatively you can use the Legal services commission Eligibility calculator to asses whether you will be eligible to receive legal aid.
