Personal

Legal Aid for Family and Divorce Services

Our family law team is up to date with any updates on current legislation and can advise you as to whether you are likely to be eligible or not.

SOLVING PERSONAL LEGAL MATTERS

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What is Legal Aid for Family and Divorce?

Legal aid for family and divorce refers to the legal assistance and representation provided to individuals who cannot afford to pay for their own legal representation. Legal aid can be available (subject to certain criteria) for a range of family law issues, including divorce, child arrangements, and domestic violence. Legal aid can provide access to justice for those who otherwise would not be able to afford it, and can help to ensure that everyone has a fair and equal opportunity to have their rights protected.

At Forbes Solicitors, we understand that divorce is not only a difficult time emotionally, but can also be a financial challenge. We will help you every step of the way to understand if you are eligible for Legal Aid or help with court fees.

As of 1st April 2013, free legal advice under the Legal Aid Agency has been limited. Access to Legal Aid is dependent on your individual case. Our Family Law Team is up to date with any updates on current legislation and can advise you as to whether you are likely to be eligible or not.

Legal aid for divorce may be available if there has been domestic abuse or violence involved during the relationship, but the eligibility for this will depend on the specific circumstances that are unique to each case and an assessment f the individual's financial circumstances.

Legal Aid in England or Wales

If you live in England or Wales, Legal Aid is no longer available to pay the legal costs of divorce or dissolution, unless there has been incidents of domestic violence or child abuse. Legal Aid may be available to pay for mediation; however, this is means-tested. You can see if you can qualify for Legal Aid by visiting the Gov.uk website, or alternatively you can get in touch with our specialist team at Forbes Solicitors.

Legal Aid for Mediation

Legal Aid for family mediation is still available for those on a low income or receiving benefits. This means the fees due to your mediation provider will be paid for you if you qualify. Free legal advice will be available whilst you are in mediation if you receive Legal Aid.

You will be considered for Legal Aid based on your before-tax income, capital, savings and the value of your home.

Child Care Proceedings

If your child has been taken into care by social services or you are involved in care proceedings and the pre-proceedings process, you are entitled to Legal Aid regardless of your financial position.

Help With Court Fees

If you are on a low income, certain benefits or have little in the way of savings you might be eligible to receive help with court fees.

At Forbes, we have Family Solicitors who are specialists in cases involving children and Social Services. Several of our solicitors are also accredited as Law Society Children Panel specialists, meaning that they can also represent children.

We can also offer advice on some areas for those qualifying for Legal Aid, but it is worth noting that, in England and Wales, you can only get Legal Aid to pay your solicitor's fees if there is evidence of domestic violence or child safeguarding issue within the last 2 years - although you may be able to apply for Legal Aid to pay mediation fees.

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Call0800 689 1058

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Contacting Us

Monday to Friday:
09:00 to 17:00

Saturday and Sunday:
Closed

Our dedicated Family/Divorce team

Rubina Vohra

Rubina Vohra

Partner and Joint Head of Family

Family/Divorce

PinBlackburn

Call01254 580 000

Helen Shirbon

Helen Shirbon

Partner, Joint Head of Family

Family/Divorce

PinPreston

Call01772 220 022

Gill Carr

Gill Carr

Partner, Family/Children

Family/Divorce

PinBlackburn

Call01254 580 000

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Contact Us

If you have a general enquiry then please fill in your details and someone will contact you.

Call0800 689 1058

CallRequest a call back

EmailSend us an email

Contacting Us

Monday to Friday: 09:00 to 17:00
Saturday and Sunday: Closed