Solicitor whilst on benefits.

[Rbkh]

Due to shitty circumstances of my ex leaving us I am currently on benefits, I just wondered is there a way I can get a solicitor at all. My ex is an utter tool who refuses to pay for our LO and messes us about over and over again, leaving it weeks on end without visiting and then expecting me to drop my plans because he’s decided all of a sudden he wants to see her. I could really do with some legal help with this situation as he just sees this as one big joke! I wish I could afford one but right now it’s just not possible.

Check with citizens advice but as far as I am aware you should be entitled to legal aid if you're on certain benefits.

I'm afraid the coalition government stopped legal aid for this kind of work unless you have proof of domestic violence. It still exists in Scotland, I believe.

CAB may get you a short free appointment with a family solicitor.

The maintenance point just requires a call to the CMS. Don't agree to a family based arrangement, get him properly assessed. Then there are consequences if he doesn't pay.

www.cmoptions.org

Hi sorry for the late reply been having a real crap month! Thanks for the advice I really appreciate it. I’m really going to take a long look into this now as he’s made life absolute hell now x

No more free solicitors unless a DV situation

But you don't need one

CMS for maintenance
Court ( instigated by him if he wants contact)

You might want to try a free law clinic too if there is one near you. They're staffed by volunteers and only have limited capacity so it's not the same as having a dedicated solicitor, but can be helpful for general tips and one-off queries etc.

www.lawworks.org.uk/legal-advice-individuals/find-legal-advice-clinic-near-you