No-win-no-fee lawyer vs legal aid
Legal aid is paid by the state for people with limited means, and usually also requires a case with reasonable merit. A no-win-no-fee lawyer is paid from what you recover, whatever your income. If you might qualify for legal aid, check first: it can also cover court fees.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for justicia gratuita in Spain?
Ley 1/1996 sets income limits linked to the IPREM index: broadly up to twice the IPREM for individuals, more for family units. Other factors, such as assets and the type of case, also count. The bar association's legal aid service can confirm whether you qualify.
Does legal aid in England and Wales cover money claims?
Mostly not. Since the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012, most civil money claims, including most personal injury, debt and employment claims, are outside the scope of legal aid. Conditional fee agreements and damages-based agreements are the usual alternatives.
If I get legal aid and lose, do I pay the other side's costs?
It depends on the country. In Germany, Prozesskostenhilfe does not protect you from paying the winner's costs. In other systems the protection is wider. Ask the legal aid service or your assigned lawyer before the case starts.