Legal Aid
What is Legal Aid?
In Scotland, legal aid exists so that everybody - no matter their background, employment status, housing situation or previous history - can have a fair trial. It can help with the costs of legal advice from a solicitor or representation at court, and the amount given depends on various factors. Sometimes the total fees are covered, and other times clients have to pay some or all of the costs back.
I can advise if you are likely to qualify for legal aid, and I can help with the application process too. I represent clients who rely on legal aid as well as self-funding clients. My service is the same no matter which route you take: you will always find me determined, sympathetic and dedicated to providing you with the best possible defence.
Who is Legal Aid for?
To qualify for legal aid, you have to show that you can’t afford to pay your legal costs yourself, or that paying them would place you or your family in difficulty.
Legal Aid for
Criminal Cases
More serious charges are most likely to receive legal aid. The Scottish Government says that criminal legal aid is usually granted if:
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you're likely to go to prison if convicted
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you're likely to lose your job if convicted
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you can't follow what's happening in the trial because of a mental or physical disability or English isn't your first language
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you're being kept in custody until a trial
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you want to appeal against a decision a criminal court made about you
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you've been charged with a serious offence on petition under solemn procedure (this means it's likely there will be a trial with a jury).
Legal Aid for
Road Traffic Cases
If your case involves a minor offence such as a motoring offence, it's unlikely you'll get help with legal costs. Speak to me for expert advice tailored to your unique situation.
You can find out more about legal aid on the Scottish Government’s website.
My fees if you’re self-funding your defence
Fee structure and payment terms
We know that the prospect of paying legal fees can be daunting for some people, so I'm always clear about costs from the get-go. The first appointment is free, then all chargeable work is discussed and agreed before we begin. Usually I agree a fixed fee with clients so that they can budget in confidence, knowing what is due and when.