Accessing Exceptional Case Funding (ECF)

Following successful litigation by PLP, Exceptional Case Funding (ECF) should now become more available in suitable cases. PLP is offering this training so that providers and their clients are able to access the scheme more effectively in the future.

Book online

The training carries 2.5 CPD/BSB.
Training runs from 14.00 – 17.00 i.e. three hours with a short break. The trainers are Joe Vester and Polly Brendon, The Public Law Project (possibly more TBC)
The training is suitable for:
• Solicitors
• Pro Bono lawyers
• Caseworkers and Paralegals
• Voluntary sector advisers
ECF can be applied for in any area of law where neither civil nor criminal legal aid is available, including immigration, family and employment cases.

Since the implementation of LASPO in 2013, PLP has made over 100 applications for ECF, and obtained funding for legal aid providers, individuals without representation and organisations without a legal aid contract. Changes introduced following PLP’s recent litigation (here) should make the ECF scheme more accessible for people who cannot deal with their cases themselves.
This includes changes to the merits regulations and changes to what the Legal Aid Agency (LAA) should count as ‘exceptional’, as well as new Guidance and new ECF procedures, including the possibility of funding to cover investigations into ECF.
The training will assist lawyers in both private practice and the voluntary sector in making the scheme work for clients, maximising your client’s chance of success when dealing with the LAA in making ECF applications. It will cover the application process, the relevant forms, what information and documents to provide, and how to identify cases which are more likely to be granted funding.

Please note that this course will not cover applications for ECF in inquest cases.

The course fees are
£30 + VAT for voluntary Sector
£60 + VAT private practice, including solicitors, barristers and paralegals
The course runs from 14.00 to 17.00
Supported by our friends Matrix Chambers