Legal aid is a service that provides free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford to hire a private attorney. Its purpose is to ensure that everyone, regardless of financial status, has access to justice and the legal system. Key aspects of legal aid include:

1. Target Client:
   Legal aid typically serves low-income individuals, marginalized groups, and vulnerable populations such as seniors, children, victims of domestic violence, and people with disabilities.

2. Services Provided:

   • Legal Advice: Offering guidance on legal rights and responsibilities.
   • Representation: Representing clients in court, mediation, or administrative proceedings.
   • Document Assistance: Helping with forms, contracts, wills, or applications.
   • Advocacy: Fighting for systemic changes to benefit underserved communities.

3. Areas of Focus:
   Legal aid often deals with cases involving:

   • Family law (e.g., custody, divorce, protection orders)

4. Funding and Providers:
   Legal aid services are often funded by government grants, charitable organizations, or non-profits. They are provided through:

   • Legal aid societies

5. Importance:
   Legal aid promotes fairness in the justice system, ensuring that legal rights are upheld for all, regardless of income or social status.