Can legal aid help with a breach of employment contract?

Hey folks, I’m currently being sued for allegedly breaching an employment contract, and I’d like to settle out of court. Problem is, I’m unemployed and can’t afford both a lawyer and a settlement. Does anyone know if legal aid can help in cases like this?

I think legal aid usually focuses on court cases where they represent clients directly. Employment contract stuff might be outside their scope.

Gale said:
I think legal aid usually focuses on court cases where they represent clients directly. Employment contract stuff might be outside their scope.

Yeah, that’s my understanding too. Legal aid is more for actual court representation.

Gale said:
I think legal aid usually focuses on court cases where they represent clients directly. Employment contract stuff might be outside their scope.

Makes sense. If it’s just for a settlement, you might have to handle it solo.

Ty said:
You could try negotiating directly with them. It’s not easy, but some employers will consider a settlement without lawyers involved.

True. It can be worth it to reach out and see if they’ll work with you directly to save everyone time.

Ty said:
You could try negotiating directly with them. It’s not easy, but some employers will consider a settlement without lawyers involved.

Agreed, especially since lawyers can make things expensive fast. Direct talks might be best here.

So just to clarify, legal aid won’t help with contract disputes at all?

Jace said:
So just to clarify, legal aid won’t help with contract disputes at all?

Yeah, they usually don’t touch contract cases. They focus more on criminal and family law stuff.

Jace said:
So just to clarify, legal aid won’t help with contract disputes at all?

Right, it’s not really what they cover. They focus on court cases for low-income folks but not so much employment disputes.

If it does go to court and you need a lawyer, maybe look into a payment plan or finding someone who works on contingency?

Harley said:
If it does go to court and you need a lawyer, maybe look into a payment plan or finding someone who works on contingency?

Good idea, hadn’t thought of that. I’ll look into options like that if things get worse.

Harley said:
If it does go to court and you need a lawyer, maybe look into a payment plan or finding someone who works on contingency?

Definitely. Some lawyers are flexible, especially if it’s a straightforward case. Worth checking out.

I’d also recommend calling around just to see what’s possible. Some legal aid places can offer advice even if they don’t represent you.

Nile said:
I’d also recommend calling around just to see what’s possible. Some legal aid places can offer advice even if they don’t represent you.

Yeah, even if they don’t take your case, they might point you in the right direction.

Nile said:
I’d also recommend calling around just to see what’s possible. Some legal aid places can offer advice even if they don’t represent you.

Totally agree. Just talking to them might help you figure out what to do next.