First, mention any urgent date
Tell an adviser about a hearing, eviction notice or other deadline as soon as you contact them. Ask if they can help in time. Do not assume that asking for help changes a deadline.
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Check legal aid
Legal aid can help pay for advice in some cases. Use the government checker, then speak to an adviser about the next step. A directory listing does not prove that a firm offers legal aid.
Try an advice service or legal clinic
Citizens Advice can help with many common problems and point you towards other support. Law centres and legal clinics may also help. Each service has limits on topics, location and who it can assist.
LawWorks lists free legal advice clinics. A clinic may give initial advice without taking on all the work in a case. Ask what it offers and whether you need to book.
Find your nearest Citizens Advice
Find a free legal advice clinic with LawWorks
Citizens Advice: more free and affordable help, including law centres
Check support you may already have
Contact the organisation before agreeing to paid work. Ask what it covers, who can do the work and whether you need approval first. Do not assume all costs will be paid.
- Insurance: ask whether a policy includes legal cover for this problem.
- Union or membership: ask what advice or case support is included.
- Workplace: check whether an employee support service offers legal information.
Ask what a free appointment includes
Some firms offer a short free or fixed-price first meeting. Confirm the price before booking. Ask whether the meeting gives advice on your problem or only explains the firm's service.
If you need more work, ask for a written quote. Check the total, other charges and payment dates. A 'no win, no fee' offer has terms too; ask what you could owe in each outcome.
Court fees and other UK countries
Help with court or tribunal fees is separate from paying a solicitor. GOV.UK explains whether you can apply for money off a fee.
Scotland and Northern Ireland have different funding rules and services. Start with the relevant guide below.
Check if legal aid could help →
Sources and further help
We used the sources below when updating this guide. Follow them for the latest details. This is general information, not advice on your case.