This information applies to Scotland

Solicitors are not the only people who can provide legal advice. You may be able to get the help you need from:-

• an accountant who can advise about tax and company law
• housing advice centre
• specialist law centre
• money advice specialist
• trade union
• motoring organisation.

Citizens Advice Bureaux provide a free, comprehensive and impartial service. To search for details of your nearest CAB, including those that give advice by email, click on nearest CAB.

If you do need a solicitor you should choose one who is experienced in the appropriate area of law. You can find out who specialises in what by contacting the Law Society for Scotland.

You may be entitled to help with legal costs either from the advice and assistance scheme or civil legal aid. A solicitor in your area may operate a fixed fee interview scheme or depending on your case, it may be possible to organise a ‘no win no fee’ agreement.

If you have been charged with a criminal offence, legal aid may be available. You are automatically entitled to criminal legal aid for the first part of your case if you have been charged under solemn procedure and kept in custody.

For more information about help with legal costs, see Help with legal costs.
For more information about choosing a solicitor, see Using a solicitor.

Other Frequently asked questions about the legal system:

• How can I claim money owed to me?
• I've been called to serve on a jury, do I have to go?