statutory charge

[Kassee]

Ten years after my divorce I have received a �8000 bill for legal aid and they want me to sign a paper so they can levy a statutory charge against my property.

Are they allowed to do this 10 years afterwards. The original bill I did argue about the costs and I never heard anything back about it - for 10 years. Help! what shall I do.

[bednobs]

when you say "you never heard anything back" do you mean you just refused to pay the bill?
i am a bit confused because i thought legal aid work was free

[CheekyChops]

If a person wins money or property in a civil case, they may be asked to repay some of their legal costs. This is called the statutory charge.

If they do not have the means to pay immediately, they can:

- arrange to pay it in installments over time
- opt for the statutory charge to be placed on the property (which means the money can be reclaimed when the property is sold or becomes part of an estate after their death).

I'm not sure about how long after the divorce they are supposed to send you a bill. Have a read of this leaflet, there are phone numbers on it so you may want to give them a ring.

[Ethel]

Excellent discussion, including the reason for such late claims here:

http://www.legalbanter.co.uk/uk-legal-moderate d-legal-topics/45259-divorce-legality-lsc-clai m-statutory.html

You need a solicitor.