What is the difference between Legal Help and Legal Aid

[Sally44]

What is the difference in the assessment criteria and the difference in what is actually provided under each scheme?

[JsMum]

Here is a link that explains Legal Aid.

 

http://www.communitylegaladvice.org.uk/en/legalaid/calculator.jsp

 

http://www.legalservices.gov.uk/about_legal_aid.asp

 

 

http://www.legalservices.gov.uk/aboutus.asp

 

JsMumx

Edited October 13, 2010 by JsMum

[Sally44]

I think I understand Legal Help, how it is calculated and that it covers legal advice via the phone or post.

 

But I don't understand what the difference is with Legal Aid. Is it calculated differently, and does it provide something different?

[Sally44]

This is in relation to my appeal to SEND and whether I can get legal support or representation from either of these services.

My understanding is that Legal Help could not represent me or my son, but could help me put the case together via the phone/post.

[JsMum]

This is in relation to my appeal to SEND and whether I can get legal support or representation from either of these services.

My understanding is that Legal Help could not represent me or my son, but could help me put the case together via the phone/post.

yes that is correct, but dont be put off attending a SEND just as you, the parent.

 

JsMumx

Edited October 13, 2010 by JsMum

[Kathryn]

But I don't understand what the difference is with Legal Aid. Is it calculated differently, and does it provide something different?

 

No. As far as i understand it, Legal aid is the umbrella term and covers a wide range of legal situations, (including representation in criminal cases), legal help as you have described it, is a sub category of that.

 

K x