This week we bring you insights to help you navigate and understand legal aid for family disputes.
Prior to 2012, legal aid was available for all family matters to individuals on a low income. However, the criteria have since changed, and legal aid is now available only in specific circumstances. Here, we provide details on the two types of legal aid available for family disputes and mediation.
1. Legal Aid for Family Mediation
Firstly, you can receive legal aid for family disputes involving ex-partners or carers, provided the dispute concerns a family member, child, or property. This is known as Legal Aid for Family Mediation. If your issue is eligible for court proceedings, you may be entitled to legal aid covering up to six mediation sessions, depending on the case.
To qualify for free legal aid, you need to provide specific evidence. If you receive any of the following benefits, you will automatically meet the income requirements for legal aid:
- Universal Credit
- Income Support
- Employment Support Allowance
- Pension Credit Guarantee Element
For more information on the necessary evidence, see our detailed blog post.
2. Legal Aid for Solicitors’ Fees in Domestic Abuse Cases
Secondly, legal aid also covers solicitors’ fees if you are a victim of domestic abuse, provided the Legal Aid Agency is convinced you did not perpetuate abuse equally. This qualification process is more complex and requires historical evidence of the abuse reported to a third party, such as the police, a hospital, or a GP, at the time it occurred. If you meet the criteria for legal aid, you will not need to pay for your solicitor or barrister’s fees, although you may have to contribute if your monthly income exceeds a certain amount.
Help with Mediation
A lesser-known resource, Help with Mediation, is available to those who qualify for legal aid in mediation. This assistance allows you to secure a solicitor’s advice during mediation. Additionally, if an agreement is reached, the solicitor may draft a consent order for you. However, many solicitors are reluctant to provide this service due to the fixed fee payment, which may not cover the actual work required.
How We Can Help!
At Family Mediation Services Ltd, we offer legal aid to our clients. To process your application, contact us on 0300 365 2700. The application process usually takes about five minutes. After submitting your information, you will be invited to book an appointment with a mediator within 24 hours. Your assessment meeting, where you can speak confidentially with a mediator, will be scheduled within approximately three days of contacting us.
For further assistance and information on legal aid for family mediation, please reach out to us. We are here to help you navigate through your family dispute with professional and compassionate support.