Private Funding
Many of our clients are either not eligible for legal aid or choose to pay privately. If you are not eligible for legal aid, or choose not to apply, then we are happy to represent you on a private client basis. We offer some brief, preliminary advice free of charge but the majority of our clients prefer to book one of our fixed- fee conferences to discuss their case in detail and the costs of representation moving forwards. We are happy to act for you on an hourly rate or if you would prefer, we can quote you a fixed-fee for representation.
Recovering legal costs
If your case is successful you may be entitled to reclaim some of your legal costs but unfortunately, you will only be able to reclaim your costs at legal aid rates which are approximately one quarter of private client rates. It is quite a lengthy process to reclaim costs but we offer this service to clients for a nominal sum of £50 plus VAT.
Please note, in the crown court a defendant can only reclaim costs if they have made an application for legal aid which has been refused.
Legal Aid
All people (regardless of earnings) are entitled to free representation at the police station. If you have been asked to contact the police station for an interview under caution on a voluntary basis then please call us to arrange representation. If you are arrested by police then please make sure that your legal rights are protected by asking for us at the police station. We have someone on duty 24 hours a day/7 days a week.
In the magistrates’ court legal aid may be available if you are financially eligible (the “means test”) and if it is deemed to be in the interests of justice for you to be granted legal aid (the “merits test”).
Legal Aid – Merit
The following are examples of when a case might warrant legal aid:
• You are under the age of 18.
• It is likely that you will go to custody.
• It is likely that you will lose your livelihood.
• It is likely that you will suffer serious damage to your reputation.
• A substantial question of law is involved.
• You may not be able to understand the court proceedings or present your own case.
• Witnesses need to be traced and statements taken from them (this may be relevant if you need an expert in your case).
• The proceedings may involve expert cross examination of a witness (this may be relevant if the police/prosecution are relying on expert witnesses).
• It is in the interests of another person that you be represented (examples may include if the case is a domestic violence allegation).
This list is not exhaustive and one should always seek professional advice in relation to eligibility.
Legal aid in the crown court
All persons are entitled to legal aid in the crown court unless your household income is greater than £37,500 per annum, however, if your income exceeds £12,475 you will probably have to pay a contribution towards your legal aid.
If your household income is greater than £37,500 please contact us to discuss the matter in further detail.
Recovering legal aid contributions in the crown court
If your case is successful you may be entitled to reclaim some of your legal costs but unfortunately, you will only be able to reclaim your costs at legal aid rates which are approximately one quarter of private client rates. It is quite a lengthy process to reclaim costs but we offer this service to clients for a nominal sum of £50 plus VAT.
Testimonials
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