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People facing the prospect of having their homes repossessed could be entitled to legal aid that could help keep heir homes according to the Legal Services Commission.
According to recently released figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders, repossessions in the UK have tripled over the last three years from 8,200 in 2004 to 27,100 in 2007.
Under the ‘Housing Possession Court Duty Scheme', a Legal Services Commission (LSC) initiative paid for by legal aid, people who are in danger of being evicted or having their house repossessed can get free legal advice.
The LSC's advice for anyone worried about mortgage repayments is to get advice as soon as their mortgage arrears start to accrue. Specialist advisors can help callers to the 0845 345 4 345 number, who are eligible for legal aid, to decide what action to take. An advisor can help determine whether callers are maximising their income and advise on any help with housing costs that a caller may qualify for. They can suggest practical solutions if the caller is unable to sustain the payments on the mortgage or help work out a repayment plan to clear arrears. A realistic ongoing payment plan can help prevent their home being repossessed. The helpline can also arrange representatives for hearings
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