JusticeNet SA coordinates free legal help for individuals and charitable not-for-profit organisations that cannot afford a lawyer. JusticeNet runs a Pro Bono Connect service to link in a client with a private legal practitioner for pro bono legal representation, when other avenues of assistance have been exhausted.

JusticeNet also provides a Federal Court Self-Representation Service and a Homeless Legal Outreach service.

Who is eligible for Pro Bono Connect?

Those that are eligible must:

Whether the matter raises an issue of public interest and whether an individual would suffer significant injustice without help or whether they could be expected to self-represent will also be considered in assessing eligibility.

An application may take up to 6 weeks to process, depending on its complexity.

A successful applicant will be referred to a lawyer. Member lawyers are not obliged to accept referrals.

What does it cost?

There is no fee to apply for Pro Bono Connect.

Generally there will be no charge for legal services provided, but clients will usually have to pay for any disbursements (for example, expert reports or court filing fees).

If the matter goes to a court or tribunal and the client is unsuccessful, the court may order that they pay the other party's costs. These costs are not covered by JusticeNet.

How to apply

Before applying, check the eligibility guidelines. Applications can be lodged online via the JusticeNet website.

Call (08) 8410 2280 (Administration only)

Email admin@justicenet.org.au