๐ Legal Aid Criteria
๐ท Section 95 โ payments
๐ Legal Aid โ not just for asylum
After receiving status, Legal Aid covers:
๐ How to find a lawyer โ 4 steps
๐จโโ๏ธ What a lawyer does
๐จโโ๏ธ Types of legal professionals
๐ก Immigration Adviser โ a specialist regulated by IAA (Immigration Advice Authority, formerly OISC). Three licence levels: Level 1 โ basic advice, Level 2 โ case handling, Level 3 โ tribunal representation and appeals, like a barrister. In immigration law, a Level 3 adviser has more powers than a regular solicitor. Many hold law degrees. They work privately and through charities.
๐ข Refused? Don't give up!
You have 14 days to submit an appeal. ~50% win in court.
Solicitor handles the case, barrister represents at tribunal. All through Legal Aid โ free.
๐ Voluntary Return
You can return voluntarily: visas-immigration.service.gov.uk/product/vrs
Payment: £1500โ3000 (applicant only). Money on ASPEN card, withdrawal only in country of nationality. Visa ban of up to 5 years. Wait for ticket ~4 months.
๐ฌ Videos
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Legal Aid lawyer cost?
Nothing. Legal Aid is free for asylum seekers. The government pays for your lawyer. You don't need to pay anything.
How do I find a Legal Aid lawyer?
Search on GOV.UK (find-legal-advice.justice.gov.uk), tick "Immigration and asylum". Contact at least 10-20 firms โ places are very limited. Also use our directory with 5,479+ lawyers.
Do I qualify for Legal Aid?
If you receive Section 95 (ASPEN card) โ Legal Aid is automatic, no income check. Otherwise: income up to ยฃ733/month net or ยฃ2,657 before deductions, savings up to ยฃ3,000.
What if my asylum claim is refused?
You have 14 days to submit an appeal. About 50% win in court. Solicitor handles the case, barrister represents at tribunal โ all through Legal Aid for free.
What's the difference between Solicitor, Barrister and Immigration Adviser?
Solicitor handles your case: gathers evidence, fills in forms, communicates with the Home Office. Barrister represents you in court. Immigration Adviser (Level 3) is regulated by IAA and can handle appeals and represent at tribunal โ in immigration often has more powers than a solicitor.
What does a Legal Aid lawyer do?
The lawyer handles your case up to the appeal tribunal, requests case status (once every 3 months), helps prepare your witness statement, and goes with you to the interview. Translation of evidence is paid by the Home Office.