Free legal assistance

Community Law is a nationwide network of law centres offering free, confidential one-on-one legal advice to people who cannot afford a lawyer. Services are available for a wide range of legal issues. Some centres offer help over the phone, while others require in-person appointments or run drop-in sessions where no booking is needed.

Most centres do not give advice on property or business issues or advice to landlords or employers.

Email: see preferred location for contact information

Web link: communitylaw.org.nz/

The Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) provides free, confidential, independent information and advice to anyone. The service informs individuals on their rights and how to access services that they need. Individuals can visit a local CAB (no appointment needed), call, email, or chat online with CAB volunteers.

Phone: 0800 367 222

Email: see local CAB for email information

Web link: www.cab.org.nz/

YouthLaw Aotearoa provides free legal services to anyone aged under 25 who is unable to access legal help elsewhere, or those acting on their behalf.

Phone: 0800 884 529

Email: legal@youthlaw.co.nz

Web link: youthlaw.co.nz/