I am a potential client. How can I make an appointment?

You can make an appointment in a number of ways.

1) You can use the Online Enquiry/Referral form to pass on your details to us; or
2) You can post, phone, fax, minicom or SMS.

All the information you need to make an appointment can be found here.

Where will my appointment be?

We have eight surgeries scattered around the Greater London area. Your appointment will be made wherever possible to the surgery nearest to your home. However, please bear in mind that most surgeries are only accessible for one day a week. If you require an urgent appointment, you may be required to travel further.

Who will my appointment be with?

We have a number of caseworkers with a wide range of experience in various legal matters. You will usually see the caseworker who runs the surgery closest to your home.

However, for complex employment law, welfare benefit and housing matters, you will need to see our Solicitor at 96a Curtain Road, at his office in Cardiff, or via Windows Live Messenger, ooVoo or webcam.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

It is very important that you remember to bring all relevant documents, letters and other useful information with you to your appointment. If you do not bring any documents or evidence, it makes it more difficult for our caseworkers to advise you.

How long will my appointment last for?

Usually, an appointment will last for one hour. However, for more complex matters, we can give you longer appointments.

What will happen during the appointment?

You will be given an opportunity to tell your caseworker the nature of your problem, and any concerns you may have. Our caseworker will be able to offer you options, and advise on the best way to proceed with your case.

What will happen after the appointment?

During your appointment, your caseworker will agree with some action points to follow. Following the appointment, the caseworker will create an Attendance Note outlining the main points discussed during the appointment, and set up a new file in your name. The caseworker will then carry out any necessary work on your case, and inform you within 5 working days of any progress made on your case.

You are free to contact your caseworker at any time if you have additional information or if you require a further appointment or further advice.

Who will have access to my file?

Typically, only the caseworkers within RAD Legal Services will have access to your file. However, the Casework Supervisor may require access to your file to carry out file reviews in order to ensure the quality of the advice given.

The Head of Advocacy, BME, Employment, Legal and Transition Services, the Law Society or the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner may require access to your file to deal with any complaints received. The Legal Services Commission may also require access to carry out audits under the Community Legal Service Quality Mark scheme.

As RAD is a charity, dependent on funding from various local authorities and other public bodies, we may be required to submit client details to our funders. However, these details are only likely to consist of general information such as age, gender, ethnicity, the subject matter and postcode.

How do I make a complaint if I am not happy?

Details of our complaints procedure can be found here.