Legal Aid Explained: Who Qualifies And How To Apply

• Published date: 04 August 2025
• Subject Matter: Family and Matrimonial, Family Law
• Law Firm: Rothera Bray
• Author: Emily Sherwood

If you're going through a family dispute, especially one involving your children, you might be worried about the cost of legal help. The good news? Legal aid could cover your legal fees if you meet certain criteria.

Family and Child Care Law Associate Solicitor Emily Sherwood breaks down what legal aid is, who qualifies, and how to apply, step by step.

What is legal aid?

Legal aid is public funding for a private family law dispute. It helps cover the cost of legal advice and representation. In family law, it's often used in cases involving:

• child arrangements (custody, contact, etc.)
• domestic abuse or violence
• risk of harm to a child

If you're eligible, you'll receive a legal aid certificate, which covers legal advice and representation in court. However, funding for a contested Final Hearing isn't guaranteed. Your solicitor will advise you separately on this.

Am I eligible for legal aid?

To qualify, you must pass two tests:

1....