Legal Aid:
Is time running out for legal aid?
You may have heard the rumours that legal aid is soon to be changed drastically. On 15th November 2010 the government launched a green paper outlining plans to cut £350 million from the legal aid budget. It has been suggested that it is set to hit family legal aid the hardest. Although the Government are yet to announce the changes it is likely that cases which currently have the benefit of legal aid such as divorces, applications regarding children and finances in divorce proceedings may not do so in the future unless specific criteria is met.
If the proposals are implemented it will no doubt lead to people being deprived of access to justice as they are unable to take legal advice unless they are in a fortunate position to pay those costs privately.
Our experienced family team at Burd Ward would urge you to contact us as soon as possible for advice about any family issues you may have, before the proposed cuts take effect. It is almost certain that these changes will take place and therefore it is essential that if you are considering consulting a solicitor for legal advice in relation to any family issues that you do so now to take advantage of the current legal aid provisions. Our experienced team keep abreast of new developments to ensure that you receive the best legal advice in accordance to the changing laws.
Burd Ward have an specialist family team dealing with all aspects of family law including contact to children, residence applications, domestic violence, care proceedings, divorce, separation and financial settlements.
You may be eligible for legal aid even if you are working. At Burd Ward we offer you a free appointment for initial advice and confirmation that you are eligible for legal aid if you are in any doubt. We also open our offices each Thursday until 6:30pm to work around you and your work commitments and can offer home visits if required.
For more information visit our website www.burdward.co.uk or contact Laura Prysor-Jones or Victoria Syvret on 0151 639 8273.
