Getting Advice

Although being in debt might make you feel very alone, there is a lot of free help and advice out there available for you. The important thing is to access that advice as soon as the debt problems start. Not only can there be a waiting list for free, detailed advice on debt, but the quicker you get advice and put it into practice, the easier the problems will be to solve.

Local Court

The first place to start is the local court. There will be leaflets about all sorts of debt problems in the reception, and they will always hold the latest and most up-to-date information. Libraries will also have information.

Citizens Advice Bureau

The Citizens Advice Bureau is another good place to find free assistance and they will even help you through the whole process. Most large towns and cities have either a Citizens Advice Bureau or an Independent Advice Centre, and you will get a similar range of advice from either of these. Ask them who the debt expert is and make an appointment to see that person.

CABs and Local Advice Centres not only give advice themselves, but may also refer you to specialised services if needed. They will help you access half an hour of free legal advice including advice on whether you might be entitled to Legal Aid (now called Community Legal Service Fund).

They will listen to your problem, and try to sort it out there and then if that is possible (though it may not be in debt cases). They may contact creditors on your behalf, e.g. utility companies, to see if they can get the pressure taken off while a solution is found. Quite often, especially if it involves a court appearance, the CAB will provide practical assistance and sometimes even attend and represent you.

The standard of advice they give is high – frequently checked and audited by independent bodies, and all advice is provided in absolute confidentiality.

Charities

There are also a number of charities specialising in offering advice on debt, such as The National Debtline Service. It provides a telephone Helpline for anyone with debt problems, and also provides a range of useful leaflets on subjects, such as County Court Procedures, Bankruptcy and Harassment.

Legal Assistance

Community Legal Service

Previously, people on low incomes could claim Legal Aid - the Community Legal Service Fund has now replaced this system. You may be able to get financial help from the Fund if you meet certain criteria and do not have the financial means to afford legal advice. However, you may still be expected to partially contribute towards the cost of your case if you are financially able to do so.

To obtain financial aid, you will need to visit a legal adviser, for example a solicitor or advice agency. If the adviser holds a contract with the Legal Services Commission, they may also be authorised to decide whether you should have CLS-funded help.

Other Legal Advice

Many organisations, including solicitors, offer a set period (often 30 minutes) of initial free advice, whilst others may offer the 'fixed fee interview' which will buy you half an hour of their time, very cheaply. Make sure you are prepared and have specific questions to ask, as the 30 minutes will go much quicker than you think.

Remember none of these organisations can solve your debt problem for you. Only you can do that. But they can give you guidance and reassurance about the best way to go about getting out of debt.