Yes, if you cannot come to us (for example if you are detained in hospital, or are disabled and find it difficult to get out) then we can arrange to visit you where you are. Alternatively, where this is not feasible or the matter is very urgent, then we may be able to take instructions over the telephone.
Our office has been extensively renovated to offer fully accessible facilities, including a disabled access toilet, at ground floor level. The office is also equipped with an induction loop system for the deaf.
Work Experience
A change in the Mental Health Review Tribunal for Wales’ guidance for the observation of tribunal hearings has resulted in a change to our Work Experience Policy. Unfortunately we can no longer offer 2 placements a year. We will still consider work experience applications (sent to [email protected]) of those who can demonstrate a clear interest in the areas of law we specialise in. If you do not hear back from us within 2 weeks please presume that your application has not been successful.
Yes, we frequently act for people who lack capacity to instruct us. Provided that there is no conflict of interest, we will take instructions from anyone having a legitimate interest and concern for the person who lacks capacity. If there is no one who can act, then we will approach the Official Solicitor.
We try to ensure that we are able to advise as many people as possible.
We offer "Legal Aid" to anyone who qualifies. Since 1 April 2013 "Legal Aid" is administered by the Ministry of Justice through the Legal Aid Agency. We will advise you on first contact whether you are likely to qualify for "Legal Aid". In brief, there are three tests for eligibility for "Legal Aid". These are (1) an income eligibility test (2) a capital eligibility test, and (3) a merits test. Those in receipt of Income Support, Income Based Job Seekers Allowance, Income Based Employment and Support Allowance, Guaranteed State Pension Credit or Universal Credit are eligible on income. Others on a very low income or disability related benefits may qualify on income also. The capital eligibility test will be met for those who have savings of less than £3000. For those with savings between £3000 and £8000 a contribution equal to the amount of capital held over £3000 will be required. Those with savings over £8000 or equity in a house of over £100,000 will not be eligible. The rules for financial eligibility for "Legal Aid" do change from time to time so you will need to check.
If you do not qualify for legal aid we will give you full information about our current charges when you first contact us.
Rebecca Humphreys and Helen Scott are both first language Welsh speakers and would be happy to take instructions and to advise through the medium of Welsh.
Julie Burton has learnt Welsh to a high standard and is able to communicate through Welsh if so required.