England and Wales. Confidential guidance.
Legal Aid for Criminal Defence
If you are under investigation, on bail, or facing court, early legal advice matters. We connect you with criminal defence solicitors who can explain Legal Aid eligibility and next steps.
This page provides general information only. Eligibility and outcomes depend on your circumstances and solicitor assessment.
Criminal defence usually happens in stages
You do not need to know the technical terms to get help. What matters is where you are in the process and what deadlines apply.
Stage 1: Police contact and interview
If you have been arrested, invited to a voluntary interview, or asked to attend under caution, get legal advice before the interview where possible.
Stage 2: Bail or release under investigation
After interview, you may be released under investigation or placed on bail with conditions. A solicitor can explain what conditions mean and how to respond if they affect your life or work.
Stage 3: Charging decision and court
If you are charged, you may go to the Magistrates' Court or Crown Court depending on the allegation. Your solicitor can advise on plea, preparation, and what funding routes may apply.
Stage 4: Sentencing or appeal (if relevant)
If a case proceeds to sentence, a solicitor can advise on mitigation and next steps. In some situations, an appeal may be possible.
What a criminal defence solicitor can do
The right advice at the right time helps you avoid mistakes and understand what is happening.
- Explain the allegation and process in plain English
- Request and review disclosure where possible
- Advise you before interview and court hearings
- Help you understand bail conditions and restrictions
- Prepare your case and identify key issues
- Explain funding routes including Legal Aid
How Legal Aid may apply in criminal cases
Legal Aid eligibility depends on your circumstances and the stage of the case. Your solicitor can explain what applies and what information is needed.
Means and eligibility checks
You may be asked about income and capital in some situations. If you do not have documents immediately, provide what you can and tell your solicitor what is missing.
If Legal Aid is not available
A solicitor can discuss alternatives such as fixed fees or staged pricing, so you can make an informed decision.
Common case types
Criminal defence covers a wide range of allegations. If you are unsure what category yours falls into, that is normal. A solicitor can clarify quickly.
Sexual offences
Sensitive, high-stakes matters where early advice is particularly important.
Violence and assault allegations
From common assault to more serious allegations, advice on evidence and next steps matters.
Drug offences
Possession, supply, and conspiracy allegations can move quickly through the system.
Fraud and financial crime
Often document-heavy and stressful, with serious consequences if mishandled.
This list is not exhaustive. Your solicitor will advise based on your case.
Next steps
- 1) Share the basics and any deadlines (interview date, bail conditions, court date).
- 2) We connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and options.
- 3) If appropriate, the solicitor explains next steps and what evidence is needed.
FAQs
Can I get Legal Aid for criminal defence?
Legal Aid may be available depending on your circumstances, the stage of the case, and the relevant eligibility tests. A solicitor will assess this and explain your options.
Do I need a solicitor for a police interview?
It is usually best to get advice before attending any interview. A solicitor can explain your rights, ask for disclosure, and advise on the best approach.
What happens after an arrest or interview?
Possible outcomes include no further action, release under investigation, police bail with conditions, or a charging decision. Your solicitor can explain what is most likely in your situation.
What if I cannot afford a solicitor?
Ask about Legal Aid and other funding routes. If Legal Aid does not apply, many firms offer fixed fees or staged pricing. A solicitor can explain the options clearly.
Do you guarantee Legal Aid or results?
No. Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment. Outcomes depend on the facts, evidence, and the court process.
Need criminal defence advice?
Tell us what is happening and any deadlines. We will connect you with a solicitor to discuss eligibility and next steps.
Eligibility depends on your circumstances and solicitor assessment. This does not guarantee Legal Aid.