Free Legal Aid in Bangladesh: Who Qualifies, What It Covers and How to Apply
If you cannot afford a lawyer, the government legal aid system can provide one free, and can mediate your dispute before it becomes a case. Here is who qualifies and how to apply.
- Legal aid is run by the National Legal Aid Services Organisation under the Legal Aid Services Act 2000.
- Every district has a District Legal Aid Office at the District Judge's court.
- It provides a panel lawyer, legal advice and mediation, free of charge for those who qualify.
- The national helpline 16699 is toll-free for advice and referral.
In this guide: Who usually qualifies · What legal aid covers · Mediation before a case
The short answer
Under the Legal Aid Services Act 2000, people who cannot afford to go to court can get a panel lawyer, legal advice and mediation without paying. Applications go to the District Legal Aid Office, run by a judicial officer at the District Judge’s court. There are also legal aid committees for the Supreme Court and for people in jail, and labour cells for workers.
Government legal aid is available to eligible people who cannot afford legal representation and to other qualifying disadvantaged groups, subject to the applicable criteria. Anyone can ask for advice; the criteria decide who gets a funded lawyer and case expenses. Apply early: legal aid can also support you in an existing case.
Who usually qualifies
Funded representation is for people who cannot afford a lawyer and for recognised disadvantaged or vulnerable groups, subject to the applicable rules and the legal aid authority’s assessment. Falling within a group does not by itself guarantee a funded lawyer. Groups usually considered include:
- People financially unable to bear the cost of a case.
- Women and children who are victims of violence, trafficking or acid attacks.
- Persons with disabilities, older people and others in vulnerable situations recognised in the rules.
- People in custody who cannot afford a lawyer.
Asking for legal advice is open more broadly, so do not let the funding criteria stop you from calling. Bring proof of income or status, such as a certificate from the Union Parishad chair or ward councillor.
What legal aid covers
| Help | What it means |
|---|---|
| Panel lawyer | A lawyer appointed to file or defend your case, paid by legal aid |
| Legal advice | Free advice at the office or through the 16699 helpline |
| Mediation (ADR) | The Legal Aid Officer mediates family, money and land disputes; a settlement can avoid a case |
| Case costs | Many costs of running the case, as the committee approves |
Mediation before a case
Since the 2025 amendment, now the Legal Aid Services (Amendment) Act 2026 (Act No. 45 of 2026) and in force in 22 districts from 21 July 2026, some disputes, such as family, rent, partition and certain money claims, must first go to pre-case mediation at the District Legal Aid Office in districts where the scheme has started. This applies whether or not you qualify for legal aid. Our update on mandatory pre-case mediation lists the categories and districts.
Call or visit
Call 16699 or go to the District Legal Aid Office at the District Judge's court.
Apply in writing
A short application with your name, address and the problem; no fee.
Show eligibility
NID, proof of income or status, and any case papers.
Get a lawyer or mediation
The committee appoints a panel lawyer or the officer calls the other side.
Common questions
Who can get free legal aid in Bangladesh?
Government legal aid is available to eligible people who cannot afford legal representation and to other qualifying disadvantaged groups, subject to the applicable criteria. For advice on eligibility, contact the District Legal Aid Office or call the toll-free helpline 16699.
How do I apply for legal aid?
Submit a written application to the District Legal Aid Office at the District Judge's court with your NID, proof of eligibility and any case papers. There is no application fee.
Is there a legal aid application form?
Offices provide a simple form, but a plain written application with your details and the problem is accepted.
What is the legal aid helpline number?
The national legal aid helpline is 16699, toll-free. It replaced the old 16430 number in November 2025. It gives advice and refers you to the right office.
Can I get legal aid in a criminal case?
Yes. Accused persons who cannot afford a lawyer, and victims, can apply. People in jail can apply through the jail legal aid system.
Does legal aid handle mediation?
Yes. District Legal Aid Offices mediate family, money and land disputes, and a settlement there can avoid a court case.
Can I get legal aid in the High Court?
Yes, through the Supreme Court Legal Aid Committee, which handles cases in the High Court and Appellate Divisions.
Do I need legal aid to use pre-case mediation?
No. Where pre-case mediation is mandatory for your type of dispute, everyone goes to the District Legal Aid Office first, whatever their income.
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Not sure if you qualify, or need more than legal aid offers?
Tell us your situation. We point you to legal aid or explain our fees plainly. A written assessment costs nothing.
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