Ex partners legal aid

[murphyb007]

Hi, I was hoping to get some advice, basically since leaving my partner I’ve bring paying £1000’s in legal fees to see my kids whilst she gets legal aid. Years in I am still in the same position, recently she came into over £25,000, now that she has it will she have to pay her way with the legal fees, rather than me paying because I am on a salary, and she is getting benefits, will the benefits be affected?

[echat11]

She should declare a change in circumstances, Legal Aid is 'means tested'.

[murphyb007]

Thanks, with the money going from my solicitors to hers, would it be automatic as such?

[ostell]

No she has to declare it, but has no incentive to do so. I'm sure you could help with the declaration.

[murphyb007]

True….

[murphyb007]

Can I ask, what would happen if the money was paid into her account and moved immediately or paid into another persons account, ie parents, sisters etc? Or would it be a case off ok, you are getting legal aid, yet you had money and moved it?