Chapter 6 of 13 · At court · Legal aid check

Am I likely to get legal aid?

Checked 15 Oct 2026the Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962.

The Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962 has two tests: your means are insufficient, and the charge is serious enough. The judge applies both at the first appearance on a statement of means. Enter what you earn, who depends on you and what the charge is, and see which way each test points and what to bring.

The two tests

Your means, and the charge

Income sourceNet income a weekWhat comes in after tax, a week. The statement of means asks for the same figure.DependantsChildren or adults who depend on your income.What the matter isIs custody a realistic outcome?A previous record, a charge that carries months, or a breach of a court order make it more realistic.

Savings or assets over €5,000The statement of means asks for savings and debts.I already have a solicitorThey can apply for the certificate for you.

The bands are a reading of the two tests against the only published figure. The tool does not decide legal aid, which the judge does on the statement of means, and it is not the Legal Aid Board's civil means test.

Your means, and the charge

Not sure what the paper means? One conversation settles it.