If you’re researching no win, no fee solicitors in Belfast or Northern Ireland, it’s crucial to understand the legal landscape. While these agreements are commonly promoted in England and Wales, they are illegal in Northern Ireland. At Lacey Solicitors, we offer ethical, transparent alternatives that help our clients secure maximum compensation.
What Is a “No Win, No Fee” Agreement?
A no win, no fee agreement, also known as a conditional fee arrangement, allows clients to pursue legal claims without upfront legal costs. Often, if successful, a solicitor takes a percentage (usually up to 25%) of the awarded compensation as a success fee. If the case fails, the client pays nothing.
These arrangements are often used in:
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Personal injury claims
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Road traffic accidents
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Medical negligence
Although this model is widespread in England and Wales, no win, no fee is strictly prohibited by the Law Society of Northern Ireland.
Why Is No Win, No Fee Illegal in Northern Ireland?
Part V of the Solicitors (Northern Ireland) Order 1976 explicitly bans any solicitor from charging fees solely dependent on the success of a claim. As such, no win, no fee arrangements are illegal in Northern Ireland. The Law Society of Northern Ireland strictly enforces this rule.
If a solicitor in Belfast or anywhere in Northern Ireland offers you a no win, no fee agreement, you should be aware that they are acting outside the law. We advise reporting any such behaviour to the Law Society by filling in a complaint form on their website.
Ethical Alternatives to No Win, No Fee at Lacey Solicitors
At Lacey Solicitors, we don’t take a percentage of your damages. We believe you deserve to keep 100% of the compensation you’re awarded. Instead of illegal fee structures, we offer clear, legal funding options that provide access to justice without financial stress.
✔ Free Initial Consultation
Start your claim with a free, no-obligation consultation. We’ll assess your case, advise you on your legal position, and present your options — all at no cost.
✔ Out-of-Court Settlements
We successfully settle the majority of cases without going to court. In most cases, your legal fees are paid by the other party’s insurance if the claim is successful.
✔ Legal Aid
In cases that do go to court, you may be eligible for legal aid to cover your legal fees. We help you determine your eligibility and guide you through the process.
✔ After the Event (ATE) Insurance
ATE insurance protects you from paying the other party’s legal costs if your case is unsuccessful. This means peace of mind at a modest premium — only if required.
✔ Legal Expenses Insurance
Many clients already have legal expenses cover through their car or home insurance. We’ll help you check your policies to see if you’re already protected.
Why Choose Lacey Solicitors?
At Lacey Solicitors, we’ve been helping clients across the entire island of Ireland, and we have built a reputation for trust, results, and ethical legal practice.
With us, you benefit from:
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Experienced personal injury solicitors with offices in Belfast and Dublin
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100% compensation retained
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Clear, transparent legal costs
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A proven track record in road traffic accidents, workplace injuries, medical negligence, and more
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Legal representation tailored to your financial situation
We’re here to provide access to justice — legally, ethically, and effectively.
Don’t Be Misled by No Win, No Fee Advertising
TV and online adverts from Great Britain often promote no win, no fee claims to Northern Ireland audiences. These ads are misleading. The Law Society and regulators have issued clear warnings: solicitors in Northern Ireland are not permitted to offer these arrangements.
Even in Ireland, the use of the phrases like “no win, no fee”, “no foal, no fee” and “free first consultation” are all banned, the LSRA has reiterated.
In England and Wales, the model has come under increasing scrutiny for hidden fees and unfair practices. At Lacey Solicitors, we believe there’s a better way — and our clients agree.
Speak with a Belfast Personal Injury Solicitor Today
If you’ve suffered an injury that wasn’t your fault, you don’t need to risk your compensation or be misled by complicated fee arrangements. At Lacey Solicitors, we’re committed to helping you get the justice — and the full compensation — you deserve.
📞 Call now for a free consultation or
📩 Enquire online and speak directly with a solicitor
