Check whether you could get legal aid
In England and Wales, civil legal aid can depend on the type of problem, your finances and an assessment of the case. Different rules apply to criminal legal aid and some other situations.
The GOV.UK checker is a useful starting point. A legal aid adviser can explain what applies to you and what information they need.
Find a provider
Use the official legal aid provider directory to look for organisations handling your type of problem. Contact a provider to ask whether it is accepting new legal aid cases and can help in your area.
A listing alone does not confirm that you qualify or that a provider can take on your case.
What to say when you call
- Briefly describe the problem you need help with.
- Mention any approaching hearing, eviction or other deadline straight away.
- Ask whether the provider accepts legal aid cases of this kind.
- Ask what financial information or other documents you should have ready.
Help in Scotland and Northern Ireland
The services above cover England and Wales. For legal aid in Scotland or Northern Ireland, start with the relevant service below.