What Is Legal Aid?
Legal aid provides access to legal advice and representation for people who cannot afford private solicitor fees. Two main forms: civil legal aid (Legal Aid Board) and criminal legal aid (courts).
Civil Legal Aid
The Legal Aid Board provides civil legal aid for: family law, employment, debt, housing, immigration. Contact: 1800 110 110 or legalaidboard.ie.
Eligibility
Means test: disposable income under €18,000/year and disposable capital under €100,000. Certain matters excluded (defamation, land ownership disputes).
Criminal Legal Aid
Granted by the court at its discretion — the court considers whether it is in the interests of justice given the seriousness of the charge.
FLAC — Free Legal Advice
FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres) provides free advice at clinics through volunteer solicitors. Visit flac.ie for locations.