Legal aid is available to both issue and defend Divorce Proceedings. It is also available for Ancillary Relief proceedings. This is dependent on your disposable income. It is important to note that depending on your financial circumstances you may be required to make a small contribution towards your legal fees as well as receiving legal aid. In addition, if you are awarded money or retain property such as the former matrimonial home at the end of divorce, you may have to pay the Legal Services Agency back – this is called the statutory charge.