How Can I Get Free Legal Assistance When I Need It?

There are two basic options when it comes to free legal assistance. The first is approaching your local Legal Aid office. However, it should be noted that only people classified as low income will be represented, and the type of representation will depend on a case by case basis.

It is also not ideal, even if you qualify, because of the caseload of the representatives. Appointments usually have to be made way in advance and your case may take longer to process.

But what is the alternative? If you don’t want to have to fork out expensive retainers and still want to get free legal assistance, your best bet is to sign up for a legal insurance. LegalWise is a company that offers such a service.

Membership starts at R74 per month and goes up to a maximum of R169 per month, depending on the level of cover that you chose.

What Are You Covered For?

Your monthly subscription fee entitles you to free telephonic assistance, 24/7 year-round. LegalWise also has a range of agreements and contracts that you can download for free. These can assist when it comes to drawing up a standard agreement with someone.

For most people, this is more than enough.

Other Free Legal Assistance for Policyholders

You are also entitled to receive advice over the internet or through email during standard office hours.

You are covered for face to face interactions with an attorney and representation in court when the case allows. There are annual limits in place with this option.

Instances Where a Subscription Service Might be Useful

Matters Relating to Creditors

Like when the bank or your landlord is threatening to evict you. LegalWize can act on your behalf to help sort the situation out or to advise you about what your rights are.

Matters Relating to Debtors

There are standard contracts that you can download, such as an acknowledgement of debt or letter of demand. These come in useful when dealing with debtors who are in arrears.

Employment Agreement

Employment issues can be a sticky situation, especially when you are dealing with a domestic worker. The agreements that you can download on the site will help both the employer and employee understand what is expected of them.

In this case, a domestic worker is classified as anyone who works in the home. So that would includes cleaners, gardeners, care givers or drivers.

Lease Agreement

If you are a landlord, you must have a properly written lease agreement in place before you let your property. The standard agreement on the site covers leases that are fewer than ten years in length.

Offer to Purchase

Buying a house can be exciting, but you want to make sure that you get the agreement right from the start. A legal offer to purchase is the place to start. The site contains a good example of the type of document you would need.

There are many other instances where a legal agreement is necessary. There are also instances where you need to be sure of your rights and obligations moving forward. For these reasons, it pays to invest with a subscription service so that you have legal advice on call.

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All info was correct at time of publishing