Check whether you need help now
If someone is in immediate danger, call 999. If you have court papers, a notice or another deadline, ask for advice as soon as you can. Tell the adviser about the date at the start.
Here4Legal is a directory. We cannot give legal advice or respond to an emergency.
Start with what has happened
Choose the situation that comes closest. A problem can cover more than one area. Ask the firm whether it has the right team before you book.
Check advice and cost options
A solicitor may help, but paid legal work is not the only place to start. An advice charity, law centre, union or another adviser may be able to help. What they offer depends on your problem and their capacity.
Using this directory is free. A solicitor may charge for advice, including a first call. Ask before you book.
Use a short opening sentence
You could say: ‘I need help with a problem at work. I received a letter yesterday. Can your team advise me, and is the first call free?’
Keep the key dates and papers nearby. Ask what the adviser needs before you send private documents. You can also ask about an interpreter, step-free access or a way to speak that works for you.
Looking in another part of the UK?
The law and the right adviser can depend on where your problem happened. An office address alone does not tell you which legal system the team works in.
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.