I've replied above more fully but legal defence is a means tested benefit and the test is very restrictive even for the crown court. Household incomes over 38k

I've replied above more fully but legal defence is a means tested benefit and the test is very restrictive even for the crown court. Household incomes over 38k mean you pay the whole cost. Or if you have more than about 30k in home equity you also pay the whole cost. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/criminal-legal-aid-means-testing https://www.gov.uk/guidance/criminal-legal-aid-means-testing