legal aid

Cassie42_2

Ive just read something about legal aid not being free and in time youll have to pay this back. Quite worrying considering I have been in and out of court for the past 6 years. Adding all that up itll come to a fortune then im told ill have to repay it at some point. What is the court system actually about. Do they care about the kids? Or is it just a money making system.

Sensemaya

You are probably referring to the Statutory Charge.

Depending on the circumstances of your case, sometimes it's applicable and sometimes it's not.

Have a peep on the website, but your solicitor should have already gone through it with you.

enemes

My understanding is that if someone who has been awarded legal aid gains a capital sum through the courts ( ie sale of property, damages etc) then they have to pay back the legal aid costs from that sum. I think the first £1400 is untouchable, but anything above that goes back to the governement, pound for pound.

Sensemaya

Enemes

I think up to 3K is untouchable, but the remainder to cover legal fees does have to be paid back PLUS interest.

This is annoying when arrears are interest FREE. Hardly gives the NRP incentive to pay arrears off quicker.

Troubled_Joe

Your solicitor should have gone through this with you in great detail. Get in touch with them to confirm your position.