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About the Free Legal Aid system

Free legal aid: what it is and how to receive it

Everyone may receive legal information and a consultation. People in categories defined by law may also receive defence, representation of their interests in court and assistance drafting court documents.

Types of legal aid

What assistance is available

The service available depends on your situation and eligibility for secondary legal aid.

01
Available to everyone

Legal information and consultation

  • legal information, consultations and explanations;
  • help with applications and complaints, except documents submitted to a court;
  • guidance on protecting or restoring a violated right.
02
For categories defined by law

Defence and representation of interests in court

  • representation before courts, public authorities and other persons;
  • preparation of procedural documents;
  • defence in cases provided by law.
Check your eligibility
03
In criminal proceedings

Appointed legal defence

In cases provided for by criminal procedure law, the Free Legal Aid system appoints a lawyer to defend a suspect or accused person.

Learn more about criminal law
Who can apply

Start with a consultation

You do not need to determine the type of legal aid yourself. Describe your situation to a Free Legal Aid lawyer, who will explain your rights, possible next steps and any documents you may need.

Primary legal aid is available to everyone under the jurisdiction of Ukraine.

People entitled to defence and representation of interests in court include:

This is not an exhaustive list. All eligible categories and conditions are set out in Article 14 of the Law of Ukraine On Free Legal Aid.

View all categories
A simple process

How to get legal aid

Call, write online or visit the nearest legal aid bureau.

  1. 1

    Choose a convenient channel

    Call, request an online consultation or visit a legal aid bureau.

  2. 2

    Describe your situation

    A lawyer will ask follow-up questions and explain your rights and possible solutions.

  3. 3

    Provide proof of eligibility when required

    If you need legal defence or representation before a court, a lawyer will explain which documents confirm your eligibility under the law.

Key information

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay for Free Legal Aid system services?

No. Legal services received through the Free Legal Aid system are provided free of charge.

Do I need to have all documents immediately?

For the first consultation, it is enough to describe the problem. If you need free secondary legal aid, a lawyer will explain which documents to submit.

Who provides legal aid?

Depending on the service, assistance is provided by Free Legal Aid system lawyers or independent lawyers cooperating with the system.