Legal assistance providers
If you’re facing a legal issue in NSW, there are multiple free services available to help you. These organisations, like Legal Aid NSW and community legal centres, can provide legal services, advice, representation and support for your legal issue.
The following organisations provide assistance to people with legal problems in NSW.
Referral
LawAccess NSW
LawAccess NSW is a free telephone service providing legal information and help to identify services who can assist with legal issues. Call 1300 888 529 for this NSW-wide telephone information, referral and advice service. Available from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). LawAccess NSW is a service attached to Legal Aid NSW.
Free legal advice and assistance
If you need legal advice or assistance, we recommend speaking with LawAccess first, so you can be connected with the best service for your situation.
Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT
The Aboriginal Legal Service NSW/ACT provides free, culturally appropriate legal advice, representation, information and referral assistance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members.
Community Legal Centres
Community legal centres (CLCs) are independent organisations that provide free legal advice and advocacy for a range of individuals and groups in the community. Search here for a local CLC in NSW.
Legal Aid NSW
Legal Aid NSW provides a range of free services to people who need advice, assistance and representation, and who qualify for legal aid. Eligibility for Legal Aid NSW is based on your income, assets, and the type of legal issue you are facing.
Other resources
Find Legal Answers – Legal Information Access Centre
The Find Legal Answers page has plain language legal information, guides to the law and links to legal help resources. It is run by the Legal Information Access Centre (LIAC) who can provide guidance on resources and legal information to better understand legal issues, rights and responsibilities. LIAC is based at the State Library of NSW.
Justice Connect
Justice Connect design and deliver interventions that aim to connect people and community groups with legal help, tools and services to increase access to legal support. They provide several self-help resources, and offer online advice services in certain circumstances to residents of NSW.
NSW Solicitors
The Law Society of NSW’s register of solicitors is a searchable directory of legal practices and mediators in NSW.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get help from Legal Aid in NSW?
To find out how to get legal aid, you first need to have Legal Aid NSW assess your income, assets and the type of legal matter you have. They will complete a Means Test (assessing your income and assets) to work out if you are eligible. Income limits will change depending on how many people live in your household. The best way to find out if you qualify is to contact LawAccess on 1300 888 529 between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday.
What issues are covered by legal aid in NSW?
Legal Aid NSW covers:
- Criminal matters
- Family law
- Domestic and family violence
- Child protection
- Immigration matters
- A range of other civil law matters
Legal aid focuses on more serious cases where having a lawyer would significantly support your situation, like situations where you could lose your home or freedom.
What legal services are free in NSW?
Free legal assistance is provided by Legal Aid NSW, community legal centres and the Aboriginal Legal Service. LawAccess NSW is a free entry point that can help you understand your options and connect you with the right service.
Where can I find a community legal centre in NSW?
You can search for community legal centres in NSW online through the CLCNSW Legal Directory. Each centre supports different regions and legal areas. You can also contact LawAccess NSW at 1300 888 529 for help finding the right community legal centre for you.
Do I need a referral to access free legal services in NSW?
No. You can contact Legal Aid NSW, community legal centres, or LawAccess NSW directly. LawAccess can point you to the right legal services for your unique situation.
Can community legal centres represent me in court?
Some community legal centres can represent clients in court, depending on the centre and the type of legal matter. Many centres provide legal advice, guidance and support with documents and court processes. Contact your local community legal centre to find out what services can be offered for your situation.
What should I do if I cannot afford a private lawyer?
If you can’t afford a private lawyer, call LawAccess NSW for guidance. They can direct you to free legal aid, community legal centres or pro bono legal services through Justice Connect.