Legal aid lawyers in Ashburton

3 lawyers at 3 firms in Ashburton can take legal aid cases. Their phone numbers are below. Legal aid helps pay for a lawyer if you can't afford one.

Not sure where to start? Read what to do first below, or call the Ministry of Justice legal aid line on 0800 253 425 (free, weekdays 8am to 5pm).

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Every lawyer on the Ministry of Justice list

Checked 12 October 2026

What to do first

If you've been charged

Apply for legal aid as soon as you're charged. Don't wait for your first day in court.
On your first day in court, ask for the duty lawyer. It's free, and they can help you apply for legal aid.
For most charges, the Ministry chooses your legal aid lawyer. For very serious charges (more than 10 years in prison), you can choose your own.

Read the full guide →

If it's a family matter

Find a family legal aid lawyer first. Call a few from the list until one can take your case.
Your lawyer helps you apply for legal aid. Bring details of your income, savings, debts and anything you own.
Bring any letters or court papers about your case, and your partner's income details if you have a partner.

Read the full guide →

If it's a civil matter

Civil legal aid can cover things like ACC, problems at work, money and housing disputes.
Find a civil legal aid lawyer first. Fewer lawyers do this work, so start calling early.
Your lawyer helps you apply for legal aid.

Read the full guide →

Legal aid in Ashburton at a glance

3 lawyers can take criminal legal aid cases, including less serious charges (level 1 of 4).
3 lawyers work as duty lawyers, the free help at court on your first day.
1 lawyer can take family legal aid cases, and 1 gives family legal advice.
1 lawyer can take civil legal aid cases, such as ACC or employment.

Free help near Ashburton

Free legal advice

Community Law Canterbury & West Coast

Christchurch office · 81 km from Ashburton

(03) 366 6870

Free legal help from lawyers, for people who can't afford one. They also hold clinics in smaller towns. Contact details and clinics

Free advice and forms

CAB Mid Canterbury

44 Cass Street, Ashburton

In Ashburton

03 9288761

Walk in, call or email. They can help you understand forms and find the right service.

Duty lawyer

Ashburton District Court

Corner of Baring Square West & Cameron Street, Ashburton

In Ashburton

0800 268 787

On your first day in court, ask at reception for the duty lawyer. It's free if you don't have a lawyer.

Nearest by distance from the centre of Ashburton. Checked 5 October 2026. Offices sometimes move, so call before you go.