The firm has a Legal Aid Agency Contract for criminal litigation and we are members of a specialist panel for serious and complex cases. We are committed to ensuring our clients receive the best quality defence, regardless of how the case is funded.
Our lawyers will discuss with you the best approach to take to ensure you have all the options available and we will advise you on the best approach for your case and individual circumstances.
Below are some of the questions that we are most often asked by our clients. If you can’t find the answer to your question here, please contact us on 020 7930 5100
- Legal Aid Funding (Representation Orders)
- How is Legal Aid Eligibility tested?
- Will my representation by Janes Solicitors be affected if I am funded by Legal Aid?
- Privately Funded Criminal Solicitors
What options are available for funding a case?
You can fund your case yourself by paying privately. This has many advantages and we are happy to discuss these with you.
If you do not think you will be able to afford to pay for your case, Janes Solicitors are happy to discuss funding options with you or you can speak to one of our lawyers about applying for Legal Aid funding.
Legal Aid funding
Legal Aid is a Government scheme which provides payment to your lawyers for representation in certain cases. Legal Aid funding is available to certain individuals depending on the type of case and your financial circumstance and is subject to financial means testing. Our lawyers will help you determine if you may be eligible to apply for funding, and where appropriate, we will assist you in making an application for Legal Aid.
How is Legal Aid eligibility tested?
Whether you qualify for legal aid will depend on:
- The type of case
- Your financial circumstances
Legal Aid is means tested and is therefore only available to those who qualify. Those with a household disposable income of under the £37,500 threshold may be eligible for legal aid. However, in some cases, a contribution must be made.
Legal aid might not cover all the costs of your case. You may have to:
- Pay some of the costs upfront
- Pay back the cost if you are convicted or if you win money or property from your case
There is detailed guidance available on the Legal Aid Agency website which will help you understand how the means testing works. Janes Solicitors are happy to explain this to you.
Will my representation by Janes Solicitors be affected if I am funded by Legal Aid?
No. Janes Solicitors will provide you with the same level of exceptional service whether you are privately funded or funded by the Legal Aid Agency.
Privately funded criminal solicitors
We are happy to discuss the various funding options suitable for your type of case, including our hourly or fixed fee options.
Whatever your personal circumstances, our lawyers will strive to ensure you are given the best possible cost-effective solution to suit your requirements.
Contact our expert criminal defence lawyers London
Janes Solicitors is a high-quality practice providing specialist advice on all areas of serious crime, including murder, drugs, robbery, sexual offences and terrorism. With extensive experience in criminal defence, a well-earned reputation as leaders in our field and proven success, we take a proactive and pragmatic approach to legal advice and build a solid case-tailored defence team of leading professionals to suit the specific needs of our clients. We are highly committed to our clients and take pride in our fearless commitment in each and every case.
If you need advice, are under suspicion or investigation or if you are being prosecuted for a serious criminal offence, telephone our offices today on 020 7930 5100. Alternatively you can contact us via our online contact form, and one of our team will be in touch shortly.