Duty Counsel Definition and Role

Published by:
Abigail Moses

Reviewed by:
Alistair Vigier
Last Modified: 2024-06-28
Are you looking for the definition of Duty Counsel? Duty counsel refers to a lawyer who is available to provide legal advice and representation to individuals who need it and cannot afford a private lawyer. Duty counsel may be available in criminal and civil court proceedings, administrative hearings, and other legal proceedings.
The role of duty counsel is to provide legal advice and representation to individuals in need, including those facing charges, having a legal dispute, or requiring assistance with a legal matter. Duty counsel also provides assistance in court proceedings and can help individuals understand their legal rights and obligations and represent their interests in court.

Explanation of Duty Counsel
The government may provide duty counsel, legal aid societies, or other organizations that provide legal services to those in need. Some duty counsel services are available 24/7, while others may be available during specific times or for specific legal proceedings.
In criminal court proceedings, duty counsel is available to provide legal advice and representation to individuals who have been charged with a crime and cannot afford a private lawyer. Duty counsel may assist with bail hearings, arraignments, and other court appearances and provide advice on plea negotiations, trials, and appeals.
In civil court proceedings, duty counsel may provide legal advice and representation to individuals involved in legal disputes but cannot afford a private lawyer. This may include assistance with family law matters, immigration, and other civil legal issues.
Providing legal advice
Duty counsel refers to a lawyer who provides legal advice and representation to individuals who need it and cannot afford a private lawyer. Duty counsel is available in criminal and civil court proceedings, administrative hearings, and other legal proceedings. It assists individuals in understanding their legal rights and obligations and representing their interests in court.
The duty counsel definition is lawyers paid by Legal Aid who can help people with low incomes with their family law, criminal law, or immigration law problems. Duty counsel can give free legal advice but can’t take on your whole case or represent you at trial.
Learn other legal terms.
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