Out of court: Beratungshilfe
Advisory assistance may cover legal advice and, where required, out-of-court representation for people who meet the financial and legal requirements. The competent local court decides on the application. A fee of EUR 15 may be charged.
In court: Prozesskostenhilfe or Verfahrenskostenhilfe
The court considers financial circumstances, sufficient prospects of success and whether the intended action is not unreasonable. Assistance may be granted without payments or subject to instalments.
Costs may remain
Legal aid does not generally protect you from every cost, including possible reimbursement of the other party’s lawyer if you lose. The individual risk must be assessed.
Bring these documents
- proof of income, benefits, assets, rent and regular expenses
- the complete legal documents and deadlines
- legal expenses insurance information
- any certificate or court decision already issued