Legal aid
What does legal aid entail?
The initial consultation
A duty lawyer gives a brief consultation: this is the initial advice. Confined to providing simple legal information, the initial advice is given in a consultation in a general or specialised field (law on young persons, right of residence, social aid, housing law, consumer law).
The engagement of a lawyer
Providing the family and financial requirements are met, a duty lawyer will designate a colleague to expedite a procedure or give more in-depth advice. An attendance by appointment is also in a general or specialised field (law on young persons, right of residence, social aid, housing law, consumer law).
Who is able to benefit from legal aid?
The initial advice is available to all, with no payment conditions.
The engagement of a lawyer completely or partly without charge depends on whether the beneficiary falls within one of the specified legal categories.
Documentary supporting evidence must be provided to the duty lawyer.
Where and when are duty lawyers in attendance?
What you need to know
A reduced level of fees can be asked of beneficiaries of partly free legal aid.
Legal aid may be withdrawn if the beneficiary no longer satisfies the conditions, or if he/she fails to co-operate in protecting his/her interests.
Lawyers are bound by the duty of professional secrecy.
For further information: contact the legal aid bureau (LAB) of the Bar of Liège.