Civil Legal Assistance Office (CLAO) is a network of three legal aid offices in Scotland specializing in providing civil legal assistance to eligible individuals across multiple regions. They stand out for their commitment to delivering accessible, trauma-informed legal support and promoting justice in communities throughout the Scottish regions they serve.
CLAO focuses on offering high-quality, publicly funded legal aid services, handling a varied caseload with a client-centered approach. Their solicitors are experienced in civil litigation and work directly with eligible members of the public, providing not only legal representation but also referrals and guidance to other support services when needed.
Services Offered
- Civil legal advice
- Legal representation in civil matters
- Case handling and litigation support
- Referrals to legal or advice providers
- Signposting to other sources of help
- Eligibility assessment for legal assistance
- Trauma-informed legal services
- Solicitor drop-in sessions
CLAO serves the Highland and Islands, Argyll and Bute, Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and Edinburgh and the Lothians regions, focusing on expanding access to justice particularly in island and remote communities.
