Legal aid for youths
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Hi,
Despite how much I have read I still feel like I know nothing!
Does anyone know how legal aid works for an under 18? My son is 15.
I have read that under 16s and under 18s (if in full time education) are eligible for legal aid. But I don't know if this is just duty at interview and court? Or can we contact a local solicitor that has legal aid and ask them to represent him?
Also would it be means tested based on parents earnings?
If anyone has any experience of this or advice, I would be very grateful.
Thank you x
Despite how much I have read I still feel like I know nothing!
Does anyone know how legal aid works for an under 18? My son is 15.
I have read that under 16s and under 18s (if in full time education) are eligible for legal aid. But I don't know if this is just duty at interview and court? Or can we contact a local solicitor that has legal aid and ask them to represent him?
Also would it be means tested based on parents earnings?
If anyone has any experience of this or advice, I would be very grateful.
Thank you x
If your son is called in for interview he will be provided with a duty solicitor (a free solicitor who's on duty that you don't get to pick) - the police will organise this for you.
The other two options are a local solicitor in criminal law or a solicitor with an expertise / specialism in this specific area.
Both of these options can be funded either privately or through legal aid. Not all solicitors take legal aid though.
The legal aid rules on the gov website currently state:
You have the right to free legal advice if you’re questioned at a police station.
You’ll automatically get legal aid for legal representation in court if you’re under 16 (or under 18 and in full-time education) or on certain benefits.
However, I'm not entirely sure how it works pre questioning - hopefully someone knows and can advise. Alternatively contact some solicitors - many offer a free chat on the phone prior to taking on the case so may be able to advise. xx
The other two options are a local solicitor in criminal law or a solicitor with an expertise / specialism in this specific area.
Both of these options can be funded either privately or through legal aid. Not all solicitors take legal aid though.
The legal aid rules on the gov website currently state:
You have the right to free legal advice if you’re questioned at a police station.
You’ll automatically get legal aid for legal representation in court if you’re under 16 (or under 18 and in full-time education) or on certain benefits.
However, I'm not entirely sure how it works pre questioning - hopefully someone knows and can advise. Alternatively contact some solicitors - many offer a free chat on the phone prior to taking on the case so may be able to advise. xx
Sunshine5 thank you for your reply. It is really helpful x