Civil news: online eligibility tool launched for providers
New tool now available for providers to check a client’s financial eligibility for civil legal aid.
Women working together on computer
Providers working in civil legal aid are now able to access a new financial eligibility tool called ‘check if your client qualifies for legal aid’ (CCQ).
How does it work?
Assessments of the client’s means eligibility for civil legal aid will be produced by CCQ based on the information entered.
The merits of the case cannot be assessed using this tool.
The CCQ tool can be used to perform a means calculation for both:
- certificated (licensed) legal work
- controlled work (legal help and family mediation)
The tool will make it easier for legal aid providers to assess eligibility for legal aid. If you are interested in taking part in user research about CCQ then use the contact details below.
Why is this happening now?
The previous civil legal aid calculator was removed in late 2021, as it had become outdated.
Since then, the LAA have been working hard to provide a replacement. We have been testing the tool with volunteer providers and improving it based on their feedback. It is now ready for use by all providers.
The new tool will be regularly updated to reflect the latest rules changes. This will include changes following the Means Test Review changes.
We are in the early stages of developing a similar eligibility tool for criminal legal aid and will keep you updated on progress.
Further information
Check if your client qualifies for legal aid – to access the tool
eligibility@justice.gov.uk – mailbox for questions or enquiries about taking part in user research on the tool