1 August 2025

Transfer of Representation on Legal Aid

If you’re represented under legal aid, changing solicitors is not as straightforward as it is for privately funded clients. Because legal aid is public money, any change must be approved by the Court or the Legal Aid Agency (LAA). You’ll need to show there’s a genuine reason for the transfer and that it’s in the interests of justice.

If you need urgent advice about changing solicitors for yourself or a family member, call us on 01162 555155.

When can I change solicitors?

A transfer will usually only be approved if:

  • There’s been a breakdown in the relationship between you and your current solicitor;
  • A conflict of interest has arisen;
  • Your solicitor can no longer act for professional or personal reasons.

Simply wanting a second opinion or preferring another firm is not normally enough for approval. The Court must be satisfied that the request is justified and won’t cause unnecessary delay or expense.

What’s the process?

  1. You’ll need to identify a firm willing to take over your case under legal aid.
  2. A formal application must be made explaining why you want to transfer.
  3. Your current solicitor and the proposed new firm are invited to comment.
  4. The Court reviews the reasons and decides whether to approve the transfer.
  5. If granted, the new firm will be issued with a fresh representation order and your file will be transferred. Your preferred firm of solicitors can then begin preparation of your case.

How Sahota & Sahota Solicitors can help

We often takeover legal aid cases from other firms when clients feel their concerns have not been properly addressed. We will review your case, advise whether a transfer is likely to be approved, and handle the process with the Court and your current solicitors.

Please note we often do not have the capacity to consider transfer of matters that will remain in the Magistrates Court.

If you’d like to discuss transferring your legal aid case, contact us for clear advice.


You can call or WhatsApp 01162 555155 or visit us at Sahota & Sahota Solicitors, 25 New Walk, Leicester, LE1 6TE.

If you need expert advice do not hesitate to contact us on 0116 255 5155. Our phone lines are open 24 hours a day seven days a week.

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