Access to Legal Representation through Crowdfunding

If you’re thinking about taking legal action in a gender‑critical or another belief‑related dispute, the first worry is often how to pay for it.

What is legal crowdfunding and how does it work in the UK?

Legal crowdfunding allows friends, supporters, and the wider public to contribute towards legal costs. In the UK, most campaigns use donation-based crowdfunding, where contributors give money without receiving shares or interest in return.

Platforms designed specifically for legal cases, such as CrowdJustice, guide users through setting an initial funding target, creating a campaign page and collecting pledges securely.

Once a target is reached, funds are typically paid directly to the solicitor, not to the individual, helping ensure transparency and appropriate use of funds.

You can choose a public page (good for awareness) or a private, invite‑only page if you want more privacy. There are platform and card processing fees once your target is met, so include these in your plan.

Real examples of legal crowdfunding in action

We’ve supported members of the gender‑critical community through high‑profile matters.

• In Linzi Smith’s case, her page helped people understand the legal steps and why funding was needed. If you want to see how a campaign is presented, here’s her crowdfunding page: Linzi Smith – CrowdJustice. You can also read our update once her ban ended early here – JR Levins case update.
• Mandy Clare’s story, highlighting the personal and professional impact of belief-based disputes

Not sure where to start?

Planning the budget is the calmest way to begin. Click here to explore the fees involved in crowdfunding.

We’ll map typical costs with you: early advice, letters and emails, applications, disclosure, witness statements, hearing preparation, and any court fees.

Importantly, make sure to write a clear, honest campaign page. Keep your page focused on what you need and why, and post regular updates. Online campaign pages are treated like adverts, so keep to the UK advertising rules: legal, decent and truthful (ASA/CAP guidance on crowdfunding).

Tips for getting started

1. Speak to a solicitor about the likely stages and costs of your case
2. Draft a clear, respectful campaign story for your page that explains who you are, the legal issues in your case, the plan, and the budget.
3. Decide whether a public or private campaign is appropriate.

4. Set a realistic initial target and update supporters at key milestones
5. We’ll stay with you throughout the process so you don’t have to manage it alone.

CrowdJustice’s case‑owner guides show how to set up and manage your page step by step: resources hub

If you’re exploring legal action and unsure how to fund it, an early conversation can help. We can talk you through how legal crowdfunding works in practice, what costs may arise, and whether it’s a suitable option for your situation.

We understand these situations can feel personal and complex. Any conversation will be handled with care and confidentiality.