Hérault (34)

Free lawyer (legal aid) in Béziers

This guide combines general rules for France with official links for Hérault (34). Requirements depend on your circumstances; check the current procedure with the relevant service.

Verified, up to date 20262 min read

Where to go in Béziers

Use the official sites below to check the responsible service, application method and appointment requirements. Not every procedure is handled by the prefecture. Contact the association to discuss available support.

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

Steps6
Documents6
Where to goherault.gouv.fr, aidejuridictionnelle.justice.fr, service-public.gouv.fr

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

  1. 1Check eligibility on the justice.fr simulator.
  2. 2Find a lawyer accepting legal aid or let the bar appoint one.
  3. 3Fill in the online application or 16146.
  4. 4Attach income, household and case documents.
  5. 5Apply early and keep the receipt.
  6. 6Give the decision to your lawyer.

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.

Avis d'impôt — page 1Vos référencesNuméro fiscal12 34 567 890 123← Tax number — 13 digits
Diagram of the first page of the tax notice: “Vos références” block at top left. Also shown in your impots.gouv.fr account.
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.

Steps and documents on one page — save as PDF and take it with you.

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