FAQ's › Legal Aid and Advisory

1. In what year was the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority established?
   It was established by the Legal Aid and Advice Act in 1976.
   
   
2. Why was it established?
   To provide legal advice to members of the public and legal aid for persons of small or moderate means.
   
   
3. Is there a cost to using its services?
   There is an initial fee of $10.00 for legal advice. In civil matters a contribution can be charged depending on the means of the applicant.
   
   
4. Can I get legal aid if I was charged for murder?
   Yes. The magistrate or judge uses his/her discretion to grant Legal aid for persons charged in criminal matters.
   
   
5. What other kinds of cases does the Legal Aid and Advisory Authority handle?
   Matters in the Magistrate’s and High Courts such as divorce, child maintenance, custody, applications under the Domestic Violence Act, ejectment proceedings, property matters, grant of probate or letters of administration applications, and others.
   
   
6. In what circumstances is Legal Aid not granted?
   Legal Aid is not granted for the following: defamation, election petitions, private actions and traffic offences.