Advice may be obtained from various sources, including organisations funded by public money, voluntary organizations, independent non-legally qualified immigration advisers and solicitors. There is information at the end of this leaflet on who you might contact to assist you in finding a suitable adviser. The decision on your application will not depend on whether you are represented by an immigration adviser. It will depend on whether you supply all the relevant information requested by the Immigration and Nationality Directorate within the time limits specified. However, a good quality adviser may be able to help you present the information clearly and comprehensively.
Some advisers are only able to offer assistance on basic form filling.
Others have expertise on particular aspects of immigration, asylum and citizenship law. Many good organisations provide their services free of charge. If you choose an organisation which charges for its services, you should obtain details of the charges and the service you may expect before you engage it as your representative. Legal aid is available in some cases. For information on legal aid in Scotland , you can contact the Scottish Legal Aid Board on 0131-226 7061.