Under the International Protection 2026 Act, you will be entitled to apply for free legal aid from the Legal Aid Board.

You should apply for legal aid as soon as possible after you apply for asylum.

You should be supported to do this by the Legal Aid Board counselling service, which is based in Citywest Convention Centre, while you are going through the screening process.

What will my lawyer do?

Your lawyer will advise you on your asylum Application.

Hopefully you will be allocated a lawyer quickly and they will be able to advise you on how to complete your application form, before you are asked to submit it at the end of the screening process.

Your lawyer should also give you advice before you have your Substantive interview with the IPO.

The solicitor will also support you if you have to appeal a decision of the International Protection Office (IPO), such as a negative first instance decision or a return decision. They will make submissions on your behalf and attend the oral hearing in the Tribunal with you, where applicable.

Where it is relevant, your solicitor will also represent you in relation to the AMMR Procedure, or if your application is found to be inadmissible.  

Your lawyer may also help you if you have to appeal a decision that relates to your reception conditions (for example, if your accommodation is withdrawn by IPAS). 

We recommend communicating with your lawyer in writing where possible. Please be patient and allow your lawyer reasonable time to respond to your queries. 

What is Legal Counselling?

The Legal Aid Board is also providing a new Legal Counselling service which is based out of the Citywest Reception Centre (where screening takes place)

The Counselling service offers one-on-one information sessions to help you understand the asylum process and, general guidance on how to complete your application form.

The Counselling Service will also you help you to apply for a lawyer. You should be allocated a lawyer within a few days (although the waiting times will vary depending on demand).