Legal aid, courts and complaints

Legal aid and free legal advice

You may need legal advice and representation if you're going to court because of a housing problem. Find out where you can go to get help.

How to complain

There are steps to follow with most complaints procedures. See how complaints procedures usually work and tips on what to say to complain effectively.

Alternatives to going to court

It's often cheaper and easier to sort out disputes without going to court. Find out how negotiation, mediation and arbitration work, and when to use them.

Starting a claim

Taking a case to court can be complicated and is not always appropriate. Find out what's involved if you decide to take court action

Attending a hearing

If there is a hearing involving your case you should always go to court. If you don’t attend the court hearing decisions can be made in your absence.