Customer service
Before you contact us, check out the FAQs below.
- Where can I get legal advice?
- How do I get legal aid?
- Am I eligible for legal aid?
- How do I complain about someone receiving legal aid who I believe is not eligible?
- How do I complain about my solicitor?
- How do I complain about my barrister?
- How do I complain about my legal aid?
- I do not qualify for legal aid, how do I find a solicitor privately?
1. Where can I get legal advice?
The LSC cannot provide legal advice. You will need to speak to a solicitor/legal advisor. A list of legally aided solicitors is available on the DirectGov website.
2. How do I get legal aid?
First you need to find a solicitor willing to take on your case. A list of legal aid solicitors is available on Directgov. They will make an application for legal aid on your behalf.
3. Am I eligible for legal aid?
For civil cases you must pass a financial test. To get an indication if you may be eligible, please use our online calculator.
Your case must also pass a merits test which your solicitor will discuss with you.
For criminal cases the court will assess your financial eligibility. Your solicitor can advise you on the process.
4. How do I complain about someone receiving legal aid who I believe is not eligible?
Please write to the local regional office.
Please include as much information as possible, along with supporting documentation.
5. How do I complain about my solicitor?
Complaints about solicitors in the first instance must be raised with the firm in question. If you are not happy with their response please direct your complaint to the Legal Ombudsman.
6. How do I complain about my barrister?
Complaints about barrister in the first instance must be raised with the barrister’s chambers in question. If you are not happy with their response please direct your complaint to the Bar Council.
7. How do I complain about my legal aid?
Complaints about your legal aid certificate should be directed to the regional office dealing with your certificate.
If you're not happy with their response your complaint can be referred to the Central Complaints Handling Team at 4 Abbey Orchard Street, 1st Floor, London, SW1P 2BS, or by e-mail to ho.complaints@legalservices.gsi.gov.uk
8. I do not qualify for legal aid. How do I find a solicitor privately?
A list of solicitors can be found on the Law Society’s website
Last updated: 25 August 2011