Cost Should Never Decide Who Gets Justice
ACCESS TO JUSTICE SCHEME
Through our Access to Justice Scheme, we reduce financial barriers to legal support by contributing towards fees, providing certain work free of charge, and discounting our own rates, with no conditions or obligation to continue. Our network of partner barristers, solicitors and other professionals also offers reduced fees as part of the scheme. The scheme is available by referral through our charity and partner network, rather than by direct application. If you think you may benefit, a local advice charity or Citizens Advice may be able to help.
Access to Justice in Practice
Reducing Financial Barriers
We recognise that cost can prevent people from accessing timely legal support, particularly at moments of vulnerability. Through our Access to Justice Scheme, we may reduce fees, contribute towards costs, or provide specific elements of work free of charge to help individuals move forward.
Flexible, Case-by-Case Support
Support under the scheme is assessed individually, taking into account personal circumstances, financial pressure, vulnerability, and the nature of the legal issue. There are no conditions attached and no expectation that further paid work must follow.
Access to the Right Route
Access to justice also means access to the correct legal pathway. Where a matter requires regulated advice, representation, or public funding, we work closely with our trusted network of SRA-regulated organisations, barristers, and specialist services to ensure appropriate and continuous support.
Join Our Mission
We actively collaborate with legal professionals, advocates, and specialist services who share our commitment to access to justice. We welcome conversations with those who wish to contribute their expertise, time, or support to help widen access to clear, responsible, and ethical legal assistance.
Professional approach, experienced specialists, support and assistance to mothers in difficult situations with domestic violence.
IDVA Partnership Support
Early and Preventative Support
IDVA Partnership Support
We work closely with Independent Domestic Violence Advocates and support referred clients through our Access to Justice Scheme, including discounted rates where eligibility criteria are met.
Legal Aid Pathways
Early and Preventative Support
IDVA Partnership Support
Where a matter is suitable for public funding, we work alongside trusted SRA-regulated solicitor practices, supporting referrals and continuity of care while legal aid eligibility is assessed and progressed.*
Early and Preventative Support
Early and Preventative Support
Early and Preventative Support
We provide early legal guidance, drafting, and procedural support to help clients take informed steps before matters escalate. This early intervention is often critical in reducing risk, delay, and unnecessary court involvement.
Support at Court
Early and Preventative Support
Early and Preventative Support
Where appropriate, we work with specialist direct access barristers who can represent clients at hearings. Where clients are unable to afford this, we may be able to provide McKenzie Friend support instead.
*We are honoured that so many people reach out to us for Legal Aid support, and we do our very best to assist wherever we can. Please note that we only accept Legal Aid referrals through our partner charities and services, rather than directly from members of the public.
Please note: a McKenzie Friend can offer practical and procedural support, take notes, and provide quiet advice during the hearing, but cannot address the court, question witnesses, or otherwise speak on your behalf, as this role does not carry rights of audience.
This support is limited to a small number of cases through our access to justice scheme.
Family First Lawyers is an independent legal consultancy and is not authorised or regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Where necessary, we work in collaboration with authorised and regulated solicitors and direct access barristers.
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