You can access this support by completing a CW5 form. This form provides free legal advice to individuals participating in family mediation.

Understanding the Key Functions of CW5 Legal Aid

The CW5 form is a vital tool for anyone navigating family mediation while receiving legal aid. It acts as a bridge, ensuring you have professional legal backing without the financial burden.

Hot to get Access Free Legal Advice from a Qualified Solicitor:

 If you are eligible for legal aid and participating in mediation, the CW5 form grants you direct access to a solicitor. This means you don’t have to navigate complex legal decisions alone. You can consult with a solicitor at any point during the mediation process or immediately after you reach an agreement to ensure your interests are fully protected.

Comprehensive Legal Support at No Cost

The CW5 scheme covers the essential legal work required to turn your mediation discussions into a final, formal arrangement. Your solicitor will provide the following “Help with Mediation” services such as:

Reviewing Settlement Proposals:

Before you sign anything, your solicitor will analyze the proposals made in mediation to ensure they are fair and viable.

Expert Legal Advice:

You will receive clear guidance on your legal position, helping you understand your rights regarding property, finances, and children.

Drafting a Consent Order:

Once you reach an agreement, your solicitor will draft the formal Consent Order. This document is essential for making your mediation agreement legally binding and enforceable by the court.

Formalizing Financial Splits:

They will ensure that “Clean Break” clauses and other technical protections are correctly included in your paperwork.

Bridging the Gap Between Mediation and the Court:

While a mediator helps you reach an agreement, they cannot give you independent legal advice. The CW5 form solves this problem by allowing a solicitor to work alongside the mediation process. This dual support system ensures that your final agreement is mutually agreed upon and legally sound.

For More information on CW5 and to download the form click here.

The Mediators Role

The Mediator’s Role: 

You cannot apply for this yourself; your mediator must sign the CW5 form to confirm you are in mediation before a solicitor can accept it. 

Eligibility & Process for Free Legal Advice

Financial Eligibility: You must pass a means test to prove you are on a low income or receiving certain benefits.

Start Mediation: You must first attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) and begin the mediation process.

Obtain Form: Ask your mediator for the signed CW5 form once you have started.

Find a Solicitor: Take the signed form to a solicitor with a legal aid contract to receive the supported advice. 

Note: Not all solicitors accept CW5 cases, as they must have a “matter start” contract with the Legal Aid Agency for this specific type of “controlled work”. 

Are you currently in mediation, or are you looking for a solicitor who accepts Legal Aid?  You can search for one here https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/.

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