Legal Aid for Criminal Cases

If you are under arrest, you are automatically entitled to receive legal advice from a Solicitor. Call Fahrenheit Law solicitors and we will attend to represent you at the police station. If charged with a criminal offence, your access to legal aid depends on the type of crime and your financial situation. Cases heard in the Crown Court automatically qualify for legal aid, although you may need to contribute to the fees based on your financial circumstances. Entitlement to legal aid in criminal cases is assessed individually.

Police Station

When someone is arrested and taken to a police station, they are informed of their rights and asked if they want legal advice. In either case, the legal advice and representation are free through Legal Aid.

However, if you or someone you know has been asked to attend a police station by appointment for an interview, there are certain situations where free Legal Aid may not be available. If this applies to you, we encourage you to contact us and speak with one of our solicitors. We’ll be happy to provide initial advice over the phone and, if necessary, arrange a consultation with a member of our legal team.

While we offer Legal Aid at all police stations, you can also choose to privately fund your case. If you prefer a specific senior solicitor to attend, we can arrange this and quote our cost-effective fee, ensuring you know the exact costs.

Magistrates Court

If you or someone you know is charged with an offence that will be heard in a magistrates court, legal aid may cover all legal representation costs. However, it’s not available for every case; it is aimed at those who need it most.

To qualify for free legal aid, two tests must be passed:

 Interests of Justice test
 Means test (which looks at your financial situation, including income, savings, and expenses)

Are under 18 automatically qualify as they meet both the means and Interests of Justice Test

Those who receive state benefits are presumed to meet the means test and will qualify as long as they meet the interest of justice test.

Details of eligibility rules can be found on the following links;

• Means testing in the court
• Eligibility calculator
• Interests of Justice test

Speak to Our Legal Team for Specialist Advice

We understand that everyone’s circumstances are unique. If you need legal representation, we are
happy to discuss your options confidentially. Contact a member of our legal team for specialist
advice on legal aid and how we can assist you.