Eligibility calculator

On this page:

• About the calculator
• When to use the calculator
• How to use the calculator

About the calculator

The criminal means calculator is designed for legal practitioners.

It can work out if an applicant is likely to pass or fail the means test for legal aid in the magistrates' court. This is an indication of eligibility before the means test is carried out at court.

The calculator is free of charge. Access the calculator using the links below:

To be used from 7 Apr 08:

• Criminal Means Calculator v3.1 April 08 (MS Excel)
• Criminal Means Calculator v3.1 April 08 (Open Office)

Guidance on the means test can be found in the Criminal Legal Aid Guidance.

When to use the calculator

Solicitors can use the calculator before an application for legal aid (CDS14 and/or CDS15) is submitted to the magistrates' court.

The calculator may be particularly useful when trying to estimate eligibility for more complex means cases.

How to use the calculator

Solicitors can access the calculator in two ways:

• through a Microsoft Excel sheet
• by an Open Office document (if you don't have Microsoft Excel software).

Most people will be able to access the Microsoft version. You can use the calculator online by clicking on these links or download it onto a computer and use it offline.

The calculator is simple to use. It will ask a number of questions before it gives an answer. The first page of the calculator gives user instructions.

If you use the calculator online, the information is not saved. If you want to keep a copy of your results please print them.

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Last updated: 13 November 2008