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Where to start: a plain-English guide
Not sure what kind of problem it is? Start with Citizens Advice. They can tell you whether it is a legal problem and who can help.
Might you get legal aid? Legal aid is limited and means-tested, but still covers some housing, debt, family (especially where there is domestic abuse), discrimination and immigration cases. Check on GOV.UK, then use the official "Find a legal aid adviser" search.
No legal aid? Try a Law Centre or a free LawWorks clinic near you. For a court or tribunal hearing, Advocate and the Free Representation Unit may find you a volunteer lawyer.
Going to court alone? Support Through Court and Advicenow help people who represent themselves. A "McKenzie friend" can sit with you in court and take notes, but isn't a lawyer.
Happy to pay a bit? Ask solicitors for a fixed fee or "unbundled" help (paying for one piece of work), or instruct a barrister directly through the public access scheme. Always check a solicitor on the SRA register first.
Time limits matter. Many claims have strict deadlines. Employment tribunal claims are usually just three months less one day from the problem, and Acas early conciliation comes first. Get advice early.
Most services listed cover England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate legal systems and have their own advice services.
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