Police bail and court bail. England and Wales.
Legal Aid for Bail Applications
Bail conditions can be confusing and restrictive. If you are on bail, need a variation, or have a court date, speak to a solicitor quickly. We connect you with solicitors who can explain Legal Aid eligibility and next steps.
This page provides general information only. A solicitor will advise you based on your case.
If your bail conditions are affecting your life
If bail conditions stop you working, returning home, seeing your children, or contacting someone important, speak to a solicitor. In some cases, variations can be requested.
What bail means
Bail generally means you are not being held in custody while the investigation or court process continues. It can come with conditions you must follow.
Police bail
Set during an investigation. Conditions might include reporting, curfews, location restrictions, or non-contact rules.
Court bail
Granted by a court after charge. Conditions can be strict and may include residence rules, sureties, or electronic monitoring.
Bail is case-specific. A solicitor can explain what applies to you and what options exist.
Common bail conditions
Conditions can be stressful. If they are unclear or unrealistic, do not ignore them. Get advice and take action properly.
- Non-contact rules (direct or indirect contact)
- Exclusion zones or location restrictions
- Curfews or residence requirements
- Reporting to a police station
- Surrendering passport or travel bans
- Restrictions on devices or internet use (where relevant)
Changing bail conditions (variations)
In some situations, conditions can be varied. A solicitor can advise on whether a change is realistic, how to apply, and what evidence may support the request.
When variations are common
Work and travel requirements, family contact arrangements, moving address, medical needs, or conditions that are too broad.
What can help
Evidence and specifics. For example, employment details, care arrangements, documents showing a stable address, or clear proposals.
If you think a breach has happened
If you may have breached bail conditions (or you are being accused of breaching), get legal advice urgently. Do not assume it is minor.
How Legal Aid may apply
Legal Aid eligibility depends on your circumstances and where you are in the process. A solicitor will assess what applies and explain what information is needed.
What you may be asked for
You may need to provide basic details and, in some situations, information about income and capital. If you do not have documents immediately, provide what you can.
If Legal Aid is not available
A solicitor can discuss alternatives such as fixed fees or staged pricing, depending on what you need.
Next steps
- 1) Share your bail type (police or court) and your conditions.
- 2) Tell us what the conditions are stopping you from doing (work, home, family contact).
- 3) We connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and options.
FAQs
What is the difference between police bail and court bail?
Police bail is set by the police during an investigation. Court bail is granted by a court when proceedings are underway. Both can include conditions and restrictions.
Can bail conditions be changed?
In many situations, bail conditions can be varied. A solicitor can advise on what is realistic and how to apply, including what evidence may help.
What happens if I breach bail conditions?
Breaching conditions can lead to arrest and further action. Get legal advice urgently if you think there has been a breach or the conditions are unclear.
Can I get Legal Aid for bail applications?
Legal Aid may be available depending on your circumstances and the stage of the case. A solicitor will assess eligibility and explain funding options.
Do you guarantee Legal Aid or a successful bail outcome?
No. Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment. Outcomes depend on the facts, risk factors, and court decisions.
Need to change bail conditions?
Tell us your bail type and what the conditions are stopping you from doing. We will connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and options.
Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment. This does not guarantee Legal Aid.