Free consultation with a legal aid solicitor on our panel
If you want legal advice and representation, and are entitled to legal aid, Justice Centre can allocate your case to an independent solicitor on our panel who undertakes legal aid family work, and you can book a free consultation. This page explains how it works.
How the referral works
- Tell us. Use our short referral form and choose "I would like a free consultation with a legal aid solicitor"
- We contact you by the safest method and time you have chosen, and talk through your situation and hearing date
- With your consent, we pass your contact details and the basics of your situation to a panel firm
- The solicitor assesses whether you may qualify for legal aid and whether they can take your case
- You decide whether to instruct them
What you should know
- The solicitors on our panel are independent firms. They are separate from Justice Centre and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority
- They, not Justice Centre, give legal advice and act for you
- Whether you qualify for legal aid, and whether a firm accepts your case, is for the solicitor to decide. We cannot promise either
- You are free to choose any solicitor you like. You do not have to use our panel
- We only share your details with your consent, and only what is needed for the firm to contact you
Why speak to a solicitor early
Non-molestation and occupation order applications can be listed within days. A solicitor can advise you on your position and, if you qualify for legal aid, can act for you. Legal aid is means and merits tested. See our page on legal aid for respondents.
If legal aid is not available to you
Not everyone qualifies, and some solicitors may not be able to take a case. You can still ask us about other options, including guidance and McKenzie Friend support.
Make a referral
Use the Make a Referral form, choose the solicitor referral option, and tell us the safest way to reach you. It takes about a minute.
Common questions
Can Justice Centre refer me to a legal aid solicitor?
Yes. We can refer you to independent solicitors on our panel who undertake legal aid family work, with your consent.
Will I definitely get legal aid?
No. Legal aid is means and merits tested and the solicitor decides whether you qualify and whether they can take your case.
Do I have to use a solicitor from your panel?
No. You are free to choose any solicitor, or to represent yourself with support.
Who gives me legal advice?
The solicitor does. Justice Centre is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice.
Take the first step
Tell us a little about your situation and we will explain how we can help. Everything you share is treated in confidence.
Make a Referral