How to Get Free Legal Help in the UAE Using One App
If you're facing legal challenges in the UAE and can’t afford to hire a lawyer or cover court fees, don’t worry—there is help available. The UAE offers various legal aid and pro bono services for those in need. One of the easiest ways to access free legal advice is through the Dubai Now app, which provides access to the Voluntary Legal Services Smart Portal.
This service, also known as the ‘Ask A Lawyer’ feature, is offered by the Dubai Government’s Legal Affairs Department. It allows financially disadvantaged individuals to receive voluntary, pro bono legal assistance from qualified lawyers and legal consultants registered with the department.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the Dubai Now app to get free legal help:
Step 1: Download and Open the Dubai Now App
The first step is to download the Dubai Now app, which is available on both Apple and Android devices. Once downloaded, open the app and log in using your UAE Pass. If you don’t have a UAE Pass account yet, you can create one within the app.
Step 2: Navigate to the ‘Ask A Lawyer’ Service
After logging in, navigate to the ‘Justice’ category on the app’s home screen. From there, select the ‘Ask A Lawyer’ service. This feature gives you direct access to a pool of legal professionals offering free advice.
Step 3: Choose Your Preferred Language
The app will prompt you to choose your preferred language. You can select a language that you're comfortable with for better communication and understanding.
Step 4: Select Your Communication Method
Next, you will need to choose how you want to receive the legal advice. The available options include:
- In person: Meet the lawyer face-to-face.
- By telephone: Receive advice over the phone.
- Both: Choose a combination of both in-person and telephone consultations.
Step 5: Specify the Area of Law
You will then be asked to specify the area of law where you need assistance. Whether it’s family law, labor disputes, real estate, or any other legal issue, choose the category that best fits your situation.
Step 6: Choose the Jurisdiction
Select whether your legal issue falls under free zone or mainland jurisdiction. This ensures that the legal professional assisting you is well-versed in the laws applicable to your case.
Step 7: Select a Law Firm
The app will present a list of law firms participating in the program. You can choose the law firm you prefer from this list, based on availability and specializations.
Step 8: Schedule Your Appointment
Once you have chosen a law firm, you will be asked to select a day and time that works for you from the available slots. After confirming your booking, you will either receive a phone call from the lawyer at the scheduled time or visit them in person, depending on the method you selected.
That’s it! You will now be able to receive legal advice for free at the scheduled time.
With the Dubai Now app and the ‘Ask A Lawyer’ service, getting free legal help in the UAE has never been easier. Whether you’re dealing with personal, business, or civil legal matters, this service is designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of financial standing, has access to quality legal advice. So, if you need legal support but are worried about the cost, try this easy and accessible method.