Funding for Court Representation

We are confident that we can obtain legal aid to represent youths in all matters at any Court. If you or a family member has a matter at the Youth Court please contact us and we will arrange for representation free of charge.

Unlike in the Police Station, not everyone is entitled to free representation in the Magistrates Court and Crown Court. If your case is to remain in the Magistrates Court an application for legal aid can be made, which will either be granted in full, meaning you pay nothing for your representation, or will be refused in full, meaning you will have to represent yourself or instruct a lawyer on a private paying basis. We would be happy to discuss with any individual the likelihood of them receiving legal aid and the cost of their case, should they wish to instruct us privately.

If your case proceeds to the Crown Court the situation regarding public funding is slightly more complicated, and it is important that proper advice is obtained before any application is made. In the Crown Court legal aid can either be granted in full, refused in full or granted with a contribution from the defendant.

If a contribution is ordered, the defendant could be ordered to pay up to 90% of their monthly disposable income for 5 months (or 6 months if a payment is late). After the case, if the monthly contributions have not covered the full costs of the case then a contribution can be taken from the defendant's capital assets if they are over £30,000. If you are acquitted of all matters your contributions will be refunded.

Should you be facing a case that could go to the Crown Court, we advise that you fully discuss funding your case before making an application for public funding or agreeing any private paying fees. We regularly represent clients both under legal aid and under private paying instruction.

Contact us directly by calling us on 0207 485 6677 or sending us an email to lawyers@acalaw.co.uk . You can also tell us about your case or query by completing the form below.

This company is regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Company No 05867552. Company Registered in England & Wales. Registered Office: 168-172 Kentish Town Road, London, NW5 2AG