5. Can I choose a lawyer I trust to represent me under Legal Aid?

Unless the Director of Legal Aid has decided to assign the case in-house, you may request him to assign a solicitor or barrister in private practice whom you trust to represent you in the proceedings. If your suggested lawyer is on the Legal Aid Panel and has the time and expertise to represent you in the proceedings, the Director of Legal Aid will usually respect your choice. If the Director considers the lawyer suggested by you to be unsuitable, his staff will discuss with you to find another suitable lawyer.