Application Process

Step 1: Check if you are eligible to apply

Email CLAS or call 6534 1564 or visit the Law Society Pro Bono Services Office (5^th Floor Subordinate Courts Complex) to check that you are eligible to apply.

Step 2: Complete the CLAS application form

Complete the CLAS application form.

The application form is also available at your nearest police station/NPP/NPC, Community Club/Centre, Family Service Centre or the prison in which you are remanded.

You may apply in person at the Law Society Pro Bono Services Office or send your completed application form to the Pro Bono Services Office.

Upon receipt of your application, the Pro Bono Services Office will arrange to interview you either in prison or at the Pro Bono Services Office.

Step 3: Undergo a CLAS interview

At the interview, you will be asked questions concerning the charge and on your income, savings, property and other assets. You will need to show proof of your means.

All information you provide to CLAS must be true, correct and complete, otherwise CLAS will withdraw assistance even if you qualify.

Step 4: Await outcome of the CLAS application

CLAS will inform you of the outcome of your application within 2 weeks of the submission of your application form and all relevant information and documents. If your application is successful, CLAS will assign you a volunteer lawyer who will represent you in your case. You will be informed of the particulars of the lawyer in writing and you will then be his/her client.

A volunteer lawyer is a lawyer in private practice who has volunteered his/her services to CLAS. You must respond to communication from your lawyer and attend at his/her office when requested to do so. If you fail to co-operate fully with your volunteer lawyer, he/she may apply to Court to discontinue his/her service.