The Government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic issued Decree No. 77/LA, dated 28 February 2018, on Legal Aid. Pursuant to this Decree, legal aid means the provision of legal services free of charge to poor persons, disadvantaged persons, persons with disabilities, children requiring special protection, alleged offenders for whom the law requires the assistance of a lawyer, women and children who are victims of violence, and victims of human trafficking, through organizations providing legal aid, in accordance with the conditions prescribed by the Decree.
Providing Information
The provision of legal information refers to providing legal information by allowing individuals to read, take notes on, or obtain copies of legal instruments relevant to their requests or submissions. Such information may be provided through various means, including on-site services, mobile outreach services, communication channels or electronic devices, legal awareness and dissemination activities, and printed publications, as follows:
Legal Consultation
Legal consultation refers to oral or written advice and explanations regarding laws related to a request or submission. Such consultation may be provided through various methods, including on-site consultation, mobile consultation services via communication tools or electronic devices, as follows:
Assisting in drafting documents
Assistance in drafting documents refers to assisting applicants in preparing and completing various documents, such as complaints, answers to complaints, contracts, wills, and other documents related to a request or submission.
Assistance in drafting documents shall be provided on-site. In cases where the beneficiary is unable to access on-site services due to illness or other credible reasons, legal aid personnel shall provide services at the place where the person resides or at another appropriate location.
Court or trial representative
Representation in legal proceedings refers to participation in legal proceedings in accordance with judicial procedures on behalf of legal aid beneficiaries, carried out by a lawyer appointed by the Bar Association. This includes participation in investigation and inquiry procedures, appearing in court hearings, and monitoring the enforcement of court judgments.
Legal Aid Office of the Justice Sector
Legal Aid Office of the Women’s Union
Legal Aid Office of the Lao Bar Association
Legal Aid Office of Law Enterprises
Introductory video of the Legal Aid Office by BABSEACLE Laos