Key points in 30 seconds
- Check eligibility on the justice.fr simulator.
- Find a lawyer accepting legal aid or let the bar appoint one.
- Fill in the online application or 16146.
The procedure at a glance
Who qualifies
French and EU citizens and foreigners habitually and lawfully resident in France. No residence condition applies for minors, immigration cases (, detention) and criminal cases, among others. Income, assets and household are compared with ceilings — use the justice.fr simulator.
Advice from the association
Don't leave this procedure to the last minute — come and see us.
Full or partial
Below the first ceiling the state pays everything; above it aid is partial (55% or 25%). Provisional aid can be granted in urgent cases. Remaining costs are agreed with the lawyer.
Common mistake
Waiting for the hearing to apply. Urgent-case deadlines can be very short.
How to apply
Online at aidejuridictionnelle.justice.fr or with form 16146 at the legal aid office. You can name a lawyer who accepts legal aid; otherwise the bar appoints one. Apply early — it can suspend some appeal deadlines. Use the office of your local court or the court hearing the case. Check deadline effects with your lawyer.
Common mistake
Leaving out case documents. The application may be returned for corrections.
Free advice without AJ
Points-justice, lawyer sessions at town halls, and associations offer free consultations for a first opinion and help with the application.
Common mistake
Assuming legal aid is impossible without a permit.
Step by step
- 1Check eligibility on the justice.fr simulator.
- 2Find a lawyer accepting legal aid or let the bar appoint one.
- 3Fill in the online application or 16146.
- 4Attach income, household and case documents.
- 5Apply early and keep the receipt.
- 6Give the decision to your lawyer.
Refused or missed a deadline: what to do
Appeal deadlines run from the day you receive the decision — keep letters and envelopes.
Legal aid refused
An appeal is usually possible within 15 days of notification; the procedure is stated in the decision. Add any missing documents.
Case deadline running out with no decision
Tell the court and the lawyer; ask for provisional aid in urgent cases. Applying often suspends the appeal deadline.
No lawyer found
Say so on the application: the bar will appoint one.
Legal basis checked 23/10/2026service-public.gouv.fr — Aide juridictionnelle
Documents needed
Collected: 0 / 6
- ID and residence permit if required
- Latest tax or non-taxation notice
- Income and benefit evidence for the last year
- Household composition
- Case documents (decision, summons, ) Employer letter if relevant.
- Chosen lawyer's agreement
FAQ
Where do I find my tax number for the legal aid application?
At the top of the , under “Vos références” (13 digits). If you have not yet filed a first tax return, attach income evidence.
Can I choose my lawyer?
Yes, if they accept legal aid; attach their agreement.
How long does a decision take?
A few weeks to a few months; provisional aid exists for urgent cases.
Related guides
Steps and documents on one page — save as PDF and take it with you.