Free legal aid in the UK – a guide
A free or cheaper lawyer (legal aid) is available to people on low incomes with modest savings. The rules differ in each part of the UK.
England and Wales
Legal Aid Agency (LAA). In civil cases you usually have to meet these limits:
- gross income up to £2,657 a month,
- disposable income up to £733 a month,
- savings and assets up to £8,000.
Check online: gov.uk/check-legal-aid. Civil Legal Advice: 0345 345 4345.
Scotland
Scottish Legal Aid Board (SLAB). Limits from 6.04.2026:
- Advice and Assistance (advice): disposable income up to £245 a week (no contribution up to £105), capital up to £1,716,
- Civil legal aid (court case): disposable income up to £26,239 a year (no contribution up to £3,521), capital without contribution up to £7,853; above £13,017 you may be refused.
SLAB: Thistle House, 91 Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh EH12 5HE, tel. 0131 226 7061, [email protected] · Find a solicitor
Northern Ireland
Legal Services Agency Northern Ireland. Courts: Royal Courts of Justice, Chichester Street, Belfast BT1 3JF; Laganside Courts, Oxford Street, BT1 3LL. Small claims up to £5,000.
Where else to look for help
- Citizens Advice – free advice across the UK,
- ACAS – disputes with an employer (0300 123 1100),
- Polish consulates – help for citizens, a list of Polish-speaking lawyers,
- EHRC / EASS – discrimination: 0808 800 0082.
Beware of “advisers”
Immigration advice (visas, EUSS settled status) can legally be given only by people registered with the Immigration Advice Authority or by lawyers. Only an authorised lawyer can represent you in court. Always check the register before you pay.
General information, not legal advice. Every case is different – check your situation with a solicitor or Citizens Advice. Data as at 22 October 2026. Limits and rates change – always confirm them on the official website given below.
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