Legal Aid Solicitors in Luton
Access to Funding for Family & Immigration Law Cases
What Is Legal Aid & When Is It Available?
At Spring & Co Solicitors, we are contracted by the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) to offer Legal Aid funding in Luton for many types of family law and immigration law matters.
Legal Aid helps cover legal advice, representation in court, and mediation services when you cannot afford legal costs.
In certain child law matters (e.g. a parent or person with parental responsibility), Legal Aid is automatically available without a full financial assessment.
We use our experience to assist with cases including:
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Pre‑court work: meetings with local authorities
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Emergency protection orders, supervision orders, assessment orders, secure accommodation orders
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Interim orders, full care orders
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Complex issues such as non‑accidental injury, abuse (physical, sexual, emotional), neglect, substance misuse, beyond parental control
If your issue is in scope and you qualify financially, Legal Aid may cover all or part of your legal fees.
Eligibility: Means Test & Merits Test
To qualify for Legal Aid, two tests normally apply:
1. Means Test
You must demonstrate you cannot reasonably afford legal costs. The rules set thresholds for income, savings, and assets.
As of April 2025, for many civil cases the capital limit is £8,000 and disposable income limits also apply.
However, some cases are exempt from means testing, for example:
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Child protection proceedings
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Cases of domestic abuse
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Child abduction
In those instances, Legal Aid can apply even if your financial position is above the normal limits.
2. Merits Test
Your case must have reasonable prospects of success or be sufficiently important in terms of justice. The decision is made by the Legal Aid Agency or your solicitor.
Immigration & Asylum Note:
Legal Aid is restricted in immigration cases. It is generally available for asylum, bail, victims of trafficking, or certain human rights claims. If your immigration case is out of scope, you might still apply for Exceptional Case Funding (ECF).
What Costs Might You Have to Pay?
Even with Legal Aid, there might be contributions or charges:
A statutory charge may be placed on any compensation or property you receive.
You may make monthly payments from income or a lump sum from assets, depending on your financial situation.
Your solicitor should clearly explain any anticipated costs, contributions, or repayments before proceeding.
Why Choose Spring & Co in Luton for Legal Aid Work?
Recognised Legal Aid provider in Luton: we are contracted to accept Legal Aid work for family and immigration cases
Empathetic, accessible service: we explain your rights clearly and support you through every stage
Transparent about costs: you will never be faced with surprise bills
Free initial 20‑minute telephone consultation: get clarity on your eligibility and next steps
