Rhys Owen Edwards
Pretty awful experience all around. I’m currently between employment so eligible for legal aid. I found out that I was ineligible for LA about six weeks before my trial because the solicitors ASSUMED I had a current income. I explained I did not and they assured me they’d get it sorted. My solicitor was busy during my initial pre-hearing, so sent a solicitor from a different company in his stead who didn’t know my situation at all. I didn’t find out that there was no legal aid in place until the day of my trial, even after several emails and phone calls to ensure it was done before and being constantly told it would get sorted. They told me they needed proof of unemployment to apply for LA, but told me this DAYS before the trial. Emails unanswered. Zero communication regarding the trial or the LA issues. Crucial evidence that wasn’t submitted. Honestly, I feel really let down by the system and Mander Cruickshanks in particular. There’ll be a complaint made to the legal ombudsman for sure, because the service was a complete shambles.