Check if your client qualifies for legal aid

This service tells you if your client is likely to get civil legal aid, based on their financial situation.

It does not assess the scope or merits of the case.

It normally takes about 5 minutes to complete.

Controlled work and family mediation

If your client is eligible, you can download a controlled work form with your answers included.

Certificated and licensed work

We will tell you if your client is likely to be eligible. Submit an application with supporting evidence to get a full decision.

Before you start

Read the civil legal aid: means testing guidance to find out if you need to do a means test and whether your client is in scope.

To do the check, you'll need information from your client (and their partner) about their:

  • income, including any benefits they claim
  • outgoings, like housing costs, maintenance payments and childcare costs
  • savings and investments
  • assets, like property and vehicles

When you should not use this service

You should not use this service if:

  • it's for a certificated check if your client (or their partner) is a self-employed company director - make an application using the Legal Aid Portal
  • you are a member of the public – use the legal aid checker instead
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Last updated 15 May 2024See all updates