How to choose a Shit Hot Lawyer and Legal Aid?

[EvilStepMama]

I need to find a Solicitor specialising in domestic abuse. Is it as simple as going through the legal 500 rankings? Will one in the nearest town (live in the sticks) be any good, or should I be looking at one from from big city (2 hours drive)?

I have no job, very little savings, live in private rented. H was cautioned for dv 2 years ago, will I be eligible for legal aid?

I will be contacting the council for housing advice on Monday, I don't think I will be able to stay here, we have spare rooms so don't think I would be able to claim hb.

I've got a million things going through my head, how to find somewhere to live and keep Dd at current school, whether to uproot Dd and move back nearer to family and friends, just don't know where to start

[Lweji]

Have you checked the Women's Aid website? Email or ring them. They are there for you.

Also check NCDV who could get you emergency and free help with non-molestation orders if you need them.

Resolution are mostly about finding alternatives to court, but they have listings for specialists including in domestic violence

[LotusLight]

There are probably very few good lawyers who do legal aid. Even 30 years ago I wiould not go near it as it was minimum wage type pay.

Lweji's suggestions above may be good.

[EvilStepMama]

Thanks Lweji and Lotus

The Resolution site has chucked up a couple of possibilities.

I'm not in an emergency situation, he's kept his hands to himself since the caution.

[Lweji]

But don't shy away from WA.
There is also a message board on their site and you could ask for personal experience of solicitors with experience.

[EvilStepMama]

Thanks Lweji he's gone out again for a while so I am going to have a look now

[cannotseeanend]

getting legal aid with DV is HARD HARD HARD. I was turned down 2 times. Because I had part ownership of a house HE refused to let me enter!!!

I tried everywhere you could think of. I got a free barrister from Bro Bono, but then they said they couldn't find any barristers who weren't on holiday!!!!! They theoretically gave me the barrister because of DV and international aspect, but with no barristers available, I got nothing.

I tried every single link mentioned above, no-one would help.

It is an absolute disgrace.