Criminal Legal Aid
In criminal cases, Legal Aid is decided by the court dealing with your case. In most cases, Legal Aid will be automatic, and cover advice at the Police Station and at the first hearing in the Magistrates Court. It may well continue through to the end of the case. Your solicitor will explain the requirements as your case proceeds. In the Crown Court, Legal Aid will be automatic but you will be required to complete a means test form and may be required to pay a contribution at the end of the case. For certain types of case, there will still be a means and merits test and the calculation is on our website.