How do I apply for Legal Aid if I'm charged with a crime or going to the Family Court?
First check whether you are eligible on the Ministry of Justice website. For family cases, choose a Legal Aid lawyer from the list at justice.govt.nz/legal-aid, and the lawyer will help you fill in the application form. Criminal cases are processed within 24 hours. Family cases take up to 5 working days, and you get a letter. If unsure, call 0800 253 425.
Official figures
- CAB free phone
- 0800 367 2221
- CAB phone hours
- Monday to Friday 9am–4pm, Saturday 9.30am–1pm2
- Number of CABs in New Zealand
- 831
- CAB help in other languages
- Many volunteers are bilingual. They can help connect you with someone who speaks your language. CAB information is available in some other languages, for example Chinese (Simplified).2
- Number of Community Law Centres in New Zealand
- 241
Official sources
- Free community legal helpMinistry of Justice · justice.govt.nz
- Migrant ConnectCitizens Advice Bureau New Zealand · cab.org.nz
- Get legal aidMinistry of Justice · justice.govt.nz
- Contact legal aidMinistry of Justice · justice.govt.nz
Read the full guide: Free advice and legal aid →
People also ask
- Where can I get free advice in New Zealand, and can I get help in my own language?
- I have a dispute with my landlord or employer. What can I do if I can't afford a lawyer?
- Is Legal Aid free in NZ, or do I have to pay it back?
- My English isn't strong. Can I get a free interpreter when I call a government agency?
- What can a Community Law Centre help me with?
- What is the CAB phone number and when are they open?
Answers are based on official New Zealand government pages. Check the official source before you act. This is not immigration, legal or tax advice.
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