Legal Aid

Legal aid is a source of government funding which is available to people who otherwise would not be able to afford legal advice or an advocate to represent them in court.

Legal aid will only be granted by a court if the court feels that it is in interest of justice to grant it. You will not be granted legal aid for some offences, e.g. minor motoring matters, drunk and incapable etc. unless there are very exceptional circumstances. However, if your offence is not serious enough to qualify for legal aid there is always a duty advocate available at the court, who is a qualified advocate on hand to speak to you and represent you in court, on that day. This service is free of charge.

If the charge is serious or complex, you may consider applying for legal aid. If you qualify, an advocate will be appointed to represent you throughout until the proceedings have been finally concluded.

In the first instance you should contact an advocate who will be able to advise you if the court is likely to grant you legal aid in the interest of justice.

To qualify for legal aid, disposable income and savings must be below a certain limit. If you are married, or live with a partner, their income and savings will also be taken into account. Your advocate will complete a legal aid application form with you. If you are working, or if your spouse/partner is working, your advocate will require confirmation of earnings, income and any savings you may have.

Your advocate is the best person to approach with any queries regarding whether you will qualify for legal aid or not.

For more information on civil, criminal, family and mediation legal aid refer to the Government website.