LAW AND COURTS
If you’re facing legal or civic issues and cannot afford a lawyer, there are several ways to get free or low-cost legal assistance in Ghana. From community legal clinics to pro bono services, help is available—especially for vulnerable individuals and small businesses.
Where to Start:
Legal Aid Commission
The Legal Aid Commission of Ghana offers support to persons who:
- Cannot afford legal representation
- Are involved in serious criminal or civil matters
- Are victims of abuse, discrimination, or unlawful treatment
You must meet financial or social vulnerability criteria.
Find out more by visiting their offices or calling their hotline: [Insert contact info]
Citizens AdviceGeek Centre (CAC)
CAC offers free guidance, civic education, and business support to:
- Low-income individuals
- Small business owners
- Youth, women, and marginalised communities
Our Services Include:
- Walk-in or mobile legal clinics
- Virtual consultations and explainers
- Help with tenancy issues, family law, land disputes, employment rights, registration and documentation
Other Places to Find Free Legal Help
FIDA Ghana
FIDA offers free legal support especially to women and children on issues like domestic violence, inheritance, child custody and marriage disputes.
[Insert contact or website]
NGOs and Civic Organisations
Some civic and human rights organisations offer legal help for free or at very low cost, including:
- CHRAJ
- Legal Resources Centre
- POS Foundation
- WILDAF Ghana
Getting Low-Cost Legal Advice from Private Lawyers
Even if you don’t qualify for full legal aid, some lawyers:
- Offer free 30-minute consultations
- Provide fixed-fee services for basic documents like tenancy agreements, contracts or wills
- May work on a “no win, no fee” basis for personal injury or compensation matters (though less common)
Always ask for a written quotation or fee structure up front.
Legal Help Through Insurance or Memberships
Some employee unions, church groups, or professional bodies offer access to legal services as part of your membership. Check whether you have legal protection through:
- Credit union membership
- Work-based insurance
- Group schemes or welfare associations
If You’ve Been Arrested
If you’re arrested, you have the right to remain silent and the right to a lawyer. If you cannot afford one, request legal aid immediately. You can also contact CHRAJ or Legal Aid Commission for urgent representation.
Tip: Prepare for Any Legal Appointment
- Bring any relevant documents (e.g. letters, ID, agreements)
- Write down your questions or issues clearly
- Be honest and specific when describing your problem
Final Note:
Getting legal help doesn't have to be expensive. Citizens AdviceGeek Centre and our partners are working to make sure that justice is accessible to all, not just to those who can afford it.For help now, contact us at:
What the Law Says
In Ghana, rape is defined as the non-consensual penetration of the vagina by a man’s penis, regardless of whether force was used.
Sexual assault includes any unwanted or forced sexual touching or behaviour, even if it doesn’t involve penetration.
You did not give consent if:
- You were threatened, forced, or afraid
- You were asleep, unconscious, or drugged
- You were mentally or physically unable to understand or communicate your refusal
- You were pressured due to fear, manipulation, or intimidation
Rape and sexual assault are criminal offences under Ghanaian law. Marital rape is also a crime.
Where to Get Help
You are not alone. There are places you can go for confidential support and medical help. You don’t need to report the incident immediately to get assistance.
If You’re in Immediate Danger
- Call the Ghana Police Service emergency number: 191 or 112
- Visit the nearest police station and ask for the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU)
Medical & Emotional Support
- Medical care
- Emergency contraception
- HIV & STI testing
- Forensic examination
Try not to change clothes or bathe if you want evidence collected. If you do, bring the clothes in a paper bag.
Reporting the Crime
- Speak to a lawyer or legal adviser
- Visit DOVVSU for assistance
- You can report immediately or later—evidence can still help
CHRAJ or organisations like FIDA Ghana can also assist.
Organisations That Can Help
- Citizens AdviceGeek Centre (CAC)
- DOVVSU – Domestic Violence & Victim Support Unit
- FIDA Ghana – International Federation of Women Lawyers
- Ark Foundation Ghana
- WILDAF – Women in Law and Development in Africa
- Mental Health Authority or public hospitals
Support If You’re Not Ready to Report
If you have suffered an injury because of someone else's negligence—such as in a road accident, workplace incident, medical error, or assault—you may be able to claim compensation under Ghanaian law.
Taking legal action for personal injury can be complex and time-sensitive, so it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Time Limits (Statute of Limitation)
In Ghana, personal injury claims usually fall under tort law (especially negligence), and there is a 3-year time limit to begin legal proceedings from the date the injury occurred or the date you became aware of it.
Exceptions: Courts may allow an extension in limited situations—for instance, if the victim was a child, mentally incapacitated, or not aware of the full damage immediately.
When Can You Claim?
- You were injured due to another person’s negligence
- You were a passenger or pedestrian in a road accident
- You suffered medical negligence or malpractice
- You were injured at work due to poor safety practices
- You are a victim of violent crime (e.g. assault, robbery)
What Can You Claim?
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Lost income or earnings due to the injury
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Cost of rehabilitation or care
What Evidence Do You Need?
- Police report
- Medical reports and receipts
- Photos of the injury or accident scene
- Witness statements
- Employment or income records
Do You Need a Lawyer?
While it's possible to make a basic claim through insurance or directly with the responsible party, having a lawyer helps you understand your rights and negotiate a fair settlement. Some lawyers offer:
- Free first consultations
- “No win, no fee” options in select cases
- Help with court claims or insurance settlements
Road Accident Compensation
- Report the accident to police and get a police extract
- Seek treatment and request a medical report
- Check vehicle insurance status
- Submit a claim with supporting documents
Workplace Injuries
Your employer may be required to compensate you. Ghana’s Labour Law and the Workmen’s Compensation Act entitle you to:
- Medical treatment
- Payment during time off work
- Compensation for permanent injuries
How to Start a Personal Injury Claim
- Get medical treatment and request official reports
- Report the incident to the police
- Document everything: receipts, photos, contacts
- Seek advice from a lawyer or CAC
