Law on Free Legal Aid
The law governs approval and provision of free legal aid and legal support. It helps people who meet financial or specific statutory eligibility conditions identify where to apply and which services may be available.
Avangarda does not provide legal representation. These materials are here to inform and to make rights easier to understand. For a concrete legal procedure, contact a lawyer, legal aid service or the relevant institution.
Legal aid and access to justice
The Law on Free Legal Aid defines eligibility, authorised providers and the procedure for deciding applications. Published in Official Gazette RS 87/2018, it has applied since 1 October 2019. Eligibility depends on financial circumstances or membership of protected categories listed in the law; it is not a universal right to a free lawyer for every dispute.
Apply to the competent municipal or city administration in writing, electronically or orally for the record, without an application fee. Explain the legal problem and facts relevant to eligibility. Distinguish, for example, a need for advice from assistance drafting a claim or representation in proceedings already underway. Check which administration is competent and the documents required for your particular application. If a hearing or other important event is approaching, explain the urgency and provide the relevant document.
An approving decision identifies the legal problem and directs the applicant to a registered provider. Legal advice, drafting submissions and representation differ from legal support, and providers’ powers are not identical. Check whether the person or organisation is registered and authorised for the assistance required. Approval does not guarantee success in the dispute or justify disregarding procedural deadlines and other obligations.
If the application is refused, an appeal to the Ministry of Justice must be submitted within eight days after receiving the decision. Keep the decision and evidence of receipt so that the starting point can be checked. Administrative silence and urgent situations have separate rules. Cross-border provisions in Articles 44–52 apply only upon Serbia’s accession to the European Union and must not be described as an already available procedure. The enacted parliamentary text and specific Legal Information System page provide the official sources for these requirements.
Avangarda’s information overview; translations are editorial, not official legislation. Check the current official law for your situation and obtain qualified legal assistance where needed.
What is this for?
Helps you check eligibility, the approving authority and what a registered provider may do.
Who can use it?
People meeting financial criteria or belonging to protected categories defined by the law, and registered providers.
When should it be used?
Use it when a legal problem requires advice, a written submission or representation you cannot arrange yourself.