Funding Options
Ashmans Solicitors hold a contract with the Legal Services Commission for Criminal cases and we will advise you as to your eligibility for Funding Options. If you are not eligible, we can offer you competitive rates and possibly even fixed fees, depending on your circumstances.
Contact us now to discuss your legal needs.
Email us on: enquiries@ashmanssolicitors.com
CALL US ON 0333 009 6275 – OR REQUEST A FREE CALL BACK
What are Funding Options?
They are a way of meeting the costs of legal advice, family mediation and representation in a court or tribunal.
To receive Funding, you will usually need to show that:
- your case is eligible for Funding;
- the problem that you are having is serious; and,
- you cannot afford to pay for legal costs.
Ashmans Solicitors will apply for Funding on your behalf and, if you qualify, the government will pay us our costs directly.
In certain circumstances, you may have to pay some money towards the legal costs of your case or pay the costs back later.
Can I receive Funding?
You would normally be able to receive Funding if:
- You or your family are at risk of abuse or serious harm. (This can include domestic violence or forced marriage).
- You need advice on finances, children or divorce (if you’ve been in an abusive relationship).
- You’re at risk of homelessness.
- You’ve been accused of a crime and face prison.
- You are being discriminated against.
- You are in need of family mediation.
- You are adding legal arguments.
- You are bringing a case under the Human Rights Act.
- You or someone in your family has been receiving poor quality care, due to age, disability or special educational needs.
- You know that a child in your family is at risk of being taken into care.
- You are challenging the way the government has made a decision about you.
- You are seeking asylum.
- You have been the victim of human trafficking.
- You need representation at a mental health tribunal or inquest.
- Or… you are appealing a decision made by the social security tribunal about your Benefits, to the Upper Tribunal, Court of Appeal or Supreme Court.
Will I have to show my financial documents to prove that I need Funding?
Yes, you will usually need to show/prove that you cannot afford to pay for your legal help, advice and costs. You’ll need to show us information regarding yourself and your partner.
You’ll usually have to give details and evidence of your income, benefits, savings and property, and those of your partner, too. If you’re under 18, you may need to give information about your parents’ or guardians’ income.
Are there any circumstances in which my financial situation is not taken into account?
Yes, these include cases about: mental health tribunals. Along with children in care and child abduction.
Are there ever Exceptional Cases for Funding?
Yes, you may be able to get Funding in exceptional cases. This if you can show that being refused Funding would infringe:
- Your rights under the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
- Your EU rights to legal representation.
What happens if I win money or a home after my court case?
Please note that the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) will make a charge or claim – known as the ‘statutory charge’ – on any money or property you win as a result of your court case. If this is your home, payment can be deferred and the debt placed as a charge on your home. This would be very similar to a mortgage.
Will Funding help me in a Civil Case?
Civil cases are non-criminal cases that include issues like debt, family or housing problems. To get Funding, you usually need to show that you cannot afford to pay for legal costs and your problem is serious.
You may have to provide evidence about your problem too. For example in a divorce case by providing a court order or GP letter showing that you or your child have been a victim of abuse.
Can I get Funding for a Criminal Case?
Yes. You have the right to free legal advice if you’re questioned at a police station. Plus, you’ll automatically get Funding for legal representation in court if you’re under 16 (or under 18 and in full-time education) – or on certain Benefits.
A police custody officer will help you get Funding if you’ve been arrested and held at a police station. You’ll be offered free advice:
- by telephone (if the offence is less serious), or from the police station’s duty solicitor. Or from your own legal adviser at Ashmans Solicitors.
How do I contact Ashmans Solicitors?
You are welcome to Contact Ashmans Solicitors for a free, no-obligation enquiry – all enquiries are welcome. We have offices in: Central London and East London, Dewsbury, Sheffield, Huddersfield and Leeds.
Please use the Contact Us form regarding your Funding query, being as detailed as possible.
To help us answer you quickly, you’ll need to first describe the issue you’re having – then tell us what you want to achieve.
You may also email or call us to make an appointment.
Email us on: enquiries@ashmanssolicitors.com
CALL US ON 0333 009 6275 – OR REQUEST A FREE CALL BACK