Who qualifies for civil legal aid?
Eligibility for legal aid for civil legal representation is assessed by the Legal Services Commission. It is based on financial means (income and capital) and legal merits (an assessment of the person’s case) tests laid down by parliament. So long as the case relates to English or Welsh law, anyone regardless of their age or nationality can apply. People should ask a solicitor or adviser, who has a contract with the Legal Services Commission, about whether they qualify. A legal merits test is conducted by the LSC, considering factors such as the case’s likelihood of success. Solicitors are always asked to give an indication of the case’s merits.
