I cannot get legal aid for divorce - does anyone know about after event insurance?

[januarycat]

I'm running out of options & my solicitor mentioned this at our initial meeting.
I have no money due to being in a financially & emotionally abusive marriage.
Legal aid not an option, I need proof of domestic violence. My only hope was a letter from my doctor stating I am on antidepressants due to dom violence, doctor refuses.
Im waiting to receive income support, but in the meantime using ccards to buy food.

Any advice much appreciated.

Consider a McKenzie Friend if you can't afford a solicitor.

They are not solicitors or barristers and don't need to be legally qualified, but some are. They cannot speak for you in court or act as your agent but they can do much of the work. Some of them do it for a living, some for free. I can think of a few who are legally qualified, have worked in courts around the country (including the High Court) and have had rights of audience there.

Basic information: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McKenzie_friend

More info: www.fnf.org.uk/law-and-information/mckenzie-friends

They're more and more common as the cut in legal aid bites. So are unrepresented litigants. Some legal professionals are very dismissive of them but others (including most of the solicitors and barristers I meet in court) realise the value they can bring - helping organise paperwork, advising people of their options and when to speak and when to be quiet!

Thanks, lostdad
I've never heard of a Mckenzie Friend. Will research when DSs are in bed

Thanks for that babybarrister, I will look into it

It's worth remembering that even if you are eligible for legal aid it is supposed to be paid back at some point!

Yes, a loan, but more importantly, an interest free one. I got legal aid for my first divorce & paid it back as soon as I went back to work.

You do have to pay interest if you can't repay it when the case ends. The rate is something like 8%.

Wow, didn't realise that,Collaborate.