How do I provide evidence in support of my application/request?
All supporting information must be submitted through LAMS.
If the information is in hard copy (paper), the relevant parts of the document should be scanned and uploaded to LAMS.
If it is already an electronic document, the relevant parts of the document should be uploaded to LAMS.
LAMS will prompt you to upload supporting documentation in every case that this is relevant.
Please note: Only information relevant to and in support of the request should be submitted to LSANI.
Are the forms to be completed online just the digital version of A1, A4, CLA4 etc.?
No.
Whilst the questions being asked are the same as on the hard copy forms, the system is intuitive and will only ask you the questions relevant to the request and will tailor them based on the responses you give to previous questions.
Does the Agency see draft applications that I have entered on the system but not submitted?
No.
The Agency is not able to see any applications you have in draft.
Why are administrative staff not permitted to sign an application on behalf of a solicitor?
As per Regulation 5 (3) of the 2015 Civil Legal Services (General) Regulations, all applications and requests for legal aid must be submitted by a solicitor.
How does a solicitor know if an application or any other request has been submitted?
You will receive a confirmation email/message.
You will also be able to monitor the status of all requests submitted.
Is it possible to scan and upload large documents, documents with an unusual shape/size or a large volume of documents to LAMS?
LAMS accepts most document types and sizes (maximum file size 25MB). If you experience difficulty uploading a particular document type or size, the support team will be able to assist you.
The acceptable document types are as follows:
- Text – .doc, .docx, .txt, .rtf, .map, .pdf
- Spreadsheet – .xls, .xlsx, .wks
- Presentation – .ppt, .pptx
- Picture formats – .jpg, .jpeg, .bmp, .gif, .png, .tiff, .psp, .ait
- Multimedia – .mov, .au, .qt, .ra, .wav, .avi
- Database – .mdb, .dbf
- Apple MAC – .mac, .hqz
Can I add documents after an application has been submitted?
Yes.
You can add documents to an application or any other request using the Amendment request functionality in LAMS.
Is there a record of documents that have been uploaded?
Yes.
You can view a request at any time and see all documents that have been uploaded by yourself or LSANI.
Previously suppliers were discouraged from sending copies of documents/receipts as supporting evidence. Are scanned copies now acceptable evidence?
Yes.
You should retain the originals for your records. Suppliers are reminded that in accordance with GDPR rules, only the information relevant to a case should be uploaded onto LAMS.