At Shield Solicitors, we provide legal aid services. Our clientele includes individuals detained under the Mental Health Act and those subject to the Mental Capacity Act.
Mental Health and Community Care Law
Our expertise in Mental Health and Community Care law is publicly funded by the Legal Services Agency. To qualify for free legal advice and assistance, commonly known as ‘legal aid,’ your case must pass both a merits and a means test.
The merits test evaluates whether your case provides a clear benefit to you or another person.
The means test assesses both your income and capital. You may automatically qualify based on specific criteria such as receiving certain benefits or having a disposable income below £733 per month. Your capital, including savings, must also fall below £8000, with some exceptions.
Exceptions and Eligibility
Exceptions exist, particularly for cases involving the Mental Health Tribunal or challenging a Standard Authorisation (DoLS). For instance, sectioned patients or Relevant Person’s Representatives challenging a Standard Authorisation automatically qualify for assistance, regardless of means.