If you are considering legal action, it is worth talking to a solicitor first. You may be able to get a free first meeting or legal aid – ask your solicitor if you qualify.
You do not need a solicitor to make a Simple Procedures claim. But for claims over £5000, it is recommended that you find a solicitor as the more complicated ‘Ordinary Cause’ action will need to be used. You may also find it useful to talk over your situation with a solicitor before going ahead with any particular course of action.
If you do not have a solicitor already or cannot get a recommendation, search on the Law Society of Scotland website. You can search by your postcode or town/city or search for a particular area of law (i.e. Money and Debt). You can also select if you only want to see solicitors that may be able to offer legal aid work.
It is important to choose a solicitor that you feel comfortable with and trust. You should be as honest as possible with your solicitor so that they can best advise you, and remember that your solicitor should always act in your best interests.
Legal aid
You may be entitled to free advice and assistance and/or legal aid if your savings and income are low or you are on certain benefits. You may be able to get legal help through your trade union or insurer. It can be difficult to find a solicitor that will take on legal aid work but don’t be disheartened as the Law Society of Scotland website should make that easier.
