Policy Online
Criteria for vulnerable clients and law
Family - family law disputes
Legal Aid NSW will determine whether the client is vulnerable having regard to:
- whether they are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander
- whether they live in unstable housing (or are homeless)
- any mental health problems, cognitive impairment or substance abuse issues
- whether they are experiencing or at risk of domestic and family violence
- whether the client is pregnant and at risk of their child being removed and taken into care
- whether they are in custody
- whether they are living in a remote or regional area and have difficulty accessing legal services
- whether they are a refugee who arrived on an offshore humanitarian visa or holds a protection visa.
Legal Aid NSW will make an assessment of vulnerability of the client based on these characteristics and experiences.