Legal aid exists to make sure that people who otherwise would not be able to afford it, can have help in dealing with their legal problems.

There are two types of legal assistance available:

• Civil Legal Assistance - for Civil cases

• Criminal Legal Assistance - for Criminal cases

For more information, and to see if you are eligible for legal aid, the best place to go is the Getting Legal Help section on the Scottish Legal Aid Board website.

The Scottish Legal Aid Board also have a service which allows you to search for a legal aid solicitor, and a Legal Aid Helpline 0845 122 8686 (open from 7am - 11pm, seven days a week). The helpline itself does not provide legal advice, but they will help you to determine whether you are eligible for legal aid, and how to find a legal aid solicitor.