Apply for legal aid
Government subsidy to cover the costs of out-of-court legal consultation for low-income individuals.
How to proceed
- 1
Apply for a certificate of entitlement at the local court
Accompanied by a statement regarding personal and financial circumstances.
- 2
Consult a lawyer who is licensed to practice
A copayment of €15 may apply.
- 3
Get advice
The lawyer bills the state for the consultation.
Required documents
- Statement of Personal and Financial CircumstancesMandatoryOften forgotten
- Proof of incomeMandatory
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 1 weeks
Official: max. approx. 2 weeks
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Declaration of personal and financial circumstances is missing
- • Lawyer retained prior to the issuance of the authorization certificate
Common reasons for rejection
- • Income/assets exceeding the exemption limits
- • Willfulness (the same matter would not have been pursued without assistance)
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
Individuals whose income and assets do not exceed the limits for legal aid and who cannot afford a lawyer.
Income limit
Individuals: disposable income of less than approximately €50 per month; assets exceeding the exemption thresholds are taken into account.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 weeks
Success rate
approx. 85.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Declaration of personal and financial circumstances is missing
- •Lawyer retained prior to the issuance of the authorization certificate
Common reasons for rejection
- •Income/assets exceeding the exemption limits
- •Willfulness (the same matter would not have been pursued without assistance)
Alternatives
- Check related services in the application assistant
- Use social counselling before applying
If rejected
File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.
Related services
Questions & Answers
How much does legal aid cost?▼
As a rule, there is a €15 copayment, which the local attorney may collect.