The council does not provide legal advice to members of the public, although directorates will endeavour to assist to clarify responsibilities residents have concerning council functions.
Independent advice is available from a number of sources. A solicitor will give advice although there will usually be a charge though many offer a free period of consultation or a fixed fee interview. You may be able to get free legal advice from solicitors under the advice and assistance scheme. If you are on a low income Legal Aid may pay for your solicitor.
You need to ask about their charging policy and if you can get free legal advice. To find an appropriate local solicitor contact the Community Legal Service Call Centre helpline on 0845 608 1122, or use the find a solicitor facility on the Law Society website
You can get free legal advice from the network of Citizens Advice Bureaux (CAB) - all CAB offices are listed at their website (see link on this page). The Leeds Central CAB Office is at Westminster Buildings, 31 New York Street, Leeds LS2 7DT. The telephone helpline 0871 202450 will help you to find your nearest local office. Asian language appointments may be available.
Harehills and Chapeltown Law Centre is one of a network of law centres around the country providing free and confidential legal services to disadvantaged communities. They cover legal issues to do with housing, welfare rights, immigration and mental health. Contact 263 Roundhay Road, Leeds LS8 4HS Tel. 249 1100 Fax. 235 1185 or e-mail using the link on this page.
The Disability Law Service in London helps people with disabilities and their families with legal advice, negotiating and providing representation. Advice is given free by solicitors or specialists. There is a help line available Monday – Friday 10.30m–1pm and 2–5pm. Contact the Disability Law Service, 39–45 Cavell Street, London E1 2BP 020 7791 9800.
Careful research on the Internet through trusted websites can also be a source of legal information. The Equality and Human Rights Commission website, for example –www.equalityhumanrights.com can be a useful source of information in matters of race and disability issues.