Solicitor Marion Kelly of RMNJ Solicitors’ family law team dispels some uncertainties about the availability of legal aid in family proceedings…


Many solicitors don't undertake legal aid work any more, and you may have formed the impression that legal aid has been abolished for family cases.

RMNJ remains committed to providing professional representation to all our clients, whatever their means, and if legal aid is available to fund your case RMNJ will make sure that you receive the benefit. If it is no longer available we will let you know the options that are available to help keep costs to a minimum.

Q - I read there is no more legal aid for any family legal problems. Is that right?
A - No, legal aid is still fully available as before for domestic abuse and cases where the local authority (social services) is involved with your family. It is also available in other cases, like divorce, financial issues and disputes relating to children in certain limited circumstances.
 

Q - Is domestic abuse the same as domestic violence, and how can I get legal aid?
A - Domestic abuse is not restricted to acts of violence; it includes other sorts of abuse, such as financial and emotional abuse. You would still need to qualify financially, but RMNJ can advise and help you at the firm’s free assessment appointments without obligation.
 

Q - What if social services are involved with my family, and what if they want to take my child into care and are going to issue court proceedings?
A - If there are court proceedings you should qualify for legal aid, regardless of your income. You should contact your solicitor without delay, and RMNJ can provide advice from very experienced solicitors who are members of the Law Society’s Children Panel.


Q - But what if I need a divorce or help with sorting out my financial problems now I am separated?
A - Legal aid may still be available, but only in limited circumstances. RMNJ will assess you at a free appointment, and if you are not eligible RMNJ will discuss its special rates and guaranteed fixed fees with you and provide guidance. RMNJ also has a collaborative law specialist and a mediation service, and legal aid is still available for mediation if you qualify financially, or for very competitive fees.
 

Q - What if I am having problems with my ex about who should care for the children and even just getting to see my kids?
A - As with divorce and finances, legal aid is still available in limited circumstances, and RMNJ provides free assessment appointments for you and will also give details of guaranteed fixed fees for those who no longer qualify. RMNJ also provides mediation services for which you may be eligible for public funding, or alternatively you will be given details of RMNJ’s very competitive fees.

Help is just a phone call away with RMNJ. For your free options appointment call 0151 200 4499