Legal aid lawyers in Manukau

13 lawyers at 8 firms in Manukau 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 →

Legal aid in Manukau at a glance

1 lawyer can take criminal legal aid cases, including serious charges (level 3 of 4).
1 lawyer works as a duty lawyer, the free help at court on your first day.
1 lawyer gives free advice to people held by the police.
12 lawyers can take family legal aid cases, and 8 give family legal advice.
Some also take mental health (1) cases.
Languages other than English: French (1).

Free help near Manukau

Free legal advice

South Auckland Community Law

South Auckland office · 4 km from Manukau

(09) 274 4966

Free legal help from lawyers, for people who can't afford one. Contact details and clinics

Free advice and forms

CAB Papatoetoe

35A St George Street, Papatoetoe

3 km from Manukau

09 278 5191

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

Duty lawyer

Manukau District Court

30 Manukau Station Rd, Manukau

In Manukau

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 Manukau. Checked 5 October 2026. Offices sometimes move, so call before you go.