What are My Alternatives?
Although Legal Aid/Public Funding is no longer generally available for accident claims it may be in certain special cases. We will advise you whether you are entitled to Legal Aid. If you are eligible for Legal Aid we will act for you under the terms of a Legal Aid Certificate at hourly rates laid down by the Government. That hourly rate is currently £66 plus VAT. If your case is successful your solicitor can charge your opponent a higher hourly rate approved by the Court. Click here to see if you qualify for legal aid.
You may have the benefit of Legal Expenses insurance to cover the cost of bringing a claim. This is usually an add-on to your buildings or contents policy. Check your policy details. If you have legal expenses insurance your insurer will pay for the solicitor of your choice to act for you.
You can pay us on a private basis to act for you. In this case you will be required to pay for work as it is done and for court, Barristers' and experts' fees as they occur. Solicitors' charges outside London vary depending on the skill and experience of the individual solicitor. This sum is usually recoverable if you are successful. Chris Yemm will normally charge you £180 per hour plus VAT for making a personal injury claim.
You can finance your claim through an "After the Event" Legal Insurance company who for a one off premium will cover your opponent's fees and disbursements if you lose and additionally will pay for your own disbursements (but not solicitors' fees) if you lose. The premiums vary. We will obtain quotations for you.
You may be a member of a Trade Union or Trade organisation such as the AA or RAC that is willing to pay for your Legal Advice. Check your policy for details.