Duty Lawyer Service
Duty Lawyer Service
當値律師服務
About Us Duty Lawyer Scheme Free Legal Advice Tel-Law Scheme Non-refoulement Claims FAQ Contact
Free service funded by Hong Kong Government

We're Here to Help
You Understand
Your Legal Rights

Free legal advice, court representation, and information for everyone in Hong Kong — regardless of means.

Supported by:
HK SAR Government
Hong Kong Bar Association
Law Society of Hong Kong
Serving since 1978

How Can We Help You?

We offer four free or low-cost legal assistance schemes to help Hong Kong residents.

Duty Lawyer
Scheme

Legal representation in Magistrates' Courts for eligible defendants. Only $640 handling charge after means test.

Learn more

Free Legal
Advice

One-off preliminary legal advice at 9 centres across Hong Kong. No means test required. Completely free of charge.

Learn more

Tel-Law
Scheme

81 recorded legal topics available 24/7 by phone in Cantonese, Putonghua and English. Call 2521 3333.

24/7 Available
Learn more

Non-refoulement
Claims

Legal assistance for claimants seeking non-refoulement protection. Completely free with statutory declaration.

Learn more

Making Justice
Accessible to All

45+
Years of Service
7
Court Locations
9
Advice Centres

"The Duty Lawyer Service ensures that no one in Hong Kong faces the legal system alone."

Getting Help Is Simple

Three easy steps to access our free legal services.

1

Identify Your Need

Not sure which service is right for you? That's okay. Our staff can help you work out the best option for your situation.

2

Visit or Call Us

Come to any Magistrates' Court Liaison Office, call our advice line, or make an appointment through a referral agency.

3

Get Your Answers

A qualified lawyer will listen to your situation, explain your rights, and help you understand what steps you can take.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know navigating the legal system can be confusing. Here are answers to common questions.

No. The Duty Lawyer Service is an independent organization fully funded by the Government of the Hong Kong SAR and managed by the Hong Kong Bar Association and the Law Society of Hong Kong. It is not part of the Legal Aid Department.

No. All Duty Lawyers are privately practising lawyers who volunteer their time. They are paid for their service and will do their best to protect your interests, just as any private lawyer would.

No. Duty Lawyers will not press any defendants to plead guilty. It is the duty of a Duty Lawyer to explain and advise you about the strength of the case. Whether to plead guilty or not is entirely your decision.

Yes. There is no means test and the service is absolutely free of charge. Volunteer lawyers provide preliminary legal advice to help you understand your legal position.

Yes. A Duty Lawyer may have conference with you prior to the day of hearing if necessary. If more time is needed, the Duty Lawyer will apply to court to have the case stand down.

Need to Talk to Someone?

Our team is here to help. Whether you're facing a court date, need legal advice, or just have a question — don't hesitate to reach out.

Call (852) 2526 5969 Email: [email protected]

Suites 808-9 Harcourt House, 39 Gloucester Road, Wanchai