Apply for legal aid
Government coverage of court and attorney fees for low-income individuals who must file a lawsuit or defend themselves.
How to proceed
- 1
File a PKH application with the appropriate court
Accompanied by a statement of personal and financial circumstances (official form).
- 2
Review by the court
The court assesses the likelihood of success and financial need.
- 3
Approval of PKH
Coverage of court costs and, if applicable, attorney's fees, with the option to pay in installments if necessary.
Required documents
- Statement of Personal and Financial CircumstancesMandatory
Official form for applying for PKH.
Responsible authority
The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →
Fees
Varies by case
Processing time
approx. 3 weeks
Official: max. approx. 1 months
Online application
In person or by post
Common mistakes
- • Application filed after the lawsuit was filed, without waiting for prior approval of legal aid
- • Declaration of personal and financial circumstances is incomplete
Common reasons for rejection
- • The lawsuit has no reasonable chance of success
- • Income exceeds the thresholds
You can usually file an objection against a rejection.
The essentials before applying
Who is eligible?
People who cannot afford legal proceedings and whose case has a reasonable chance of success.
Income limit
Depending on income, assets, and family size.
Processing time
Nationwide: approx. approx. 3 weeks
Success rate
approx. 65.0 % (estimate)
Most common mistakes
- •Application filed after the lawsuit was filed, without waiting for prior approval of legal aid
- •Declaration of personal and financial circumstances is incomplete
Common reasons for rejection
- •The lawsuit has no reasonable chance of success
- •Income exceeds the thresholds
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.