The list of persons entitled to free secondary legal aid has been expanded in Ukraine
The Ministry of Justice of Ukraine announced that on May 21, amendments to the Law of Ukraine "On Free Legal Aid" came into force. Part one of Article 14 was supplemented with points 28-2 and 28-3, which expanded the circle of persons entitled to free secondary legal aid (FSLA).
From now on, persons who have applied for recognition as victims of sexual violence related to the armed aggression of the Russian Federation against Ukraine but received a refusal have the right to FSLA. They can receive legal assistance to appeal such a decision. Also, persons who suffered from sexual violence related to the conflict have gained the right to FSLA to protect their rights provided by the Law of Ukraine "On Legal and Social Protection of Persons Affected by Sexual Violence Related to the Armed Aggression of the Russian Federation Against Ukraine and the Provision of Urgent Interim Reparations to Them."
Why is this important?
Victims of sexual violence related to the conflict face serious psychological, social, physical, and material consequences that complicate access to justice. Securing the right to FSLA ensures the possibility of obtaining legal support to exercise rights, including urgent interim reparations, to seek protection and restoration of violated rights, as well as to appeal decisions denying victim status.
According to prosecution authorities, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation, hundreds of cases of sexual violence against women, men, and minors are being investigated in Ukraine. After the de-occupation of territories and the release of civilians and prisoners of war, the number of such crimes continues to grow.
Where to get free legal support?
Every person has the right to contact the free legal aid system to receive an initial consultation with a lawyer. Specialists will provide explanations regarding the procedure, necessary documents, and possible legal protection mechanisms.
Certain categories of citizens, including internally displaced persons, war veterans, family members of deceased servicemen, low-income individuals, and others defined by Article 14 of the Law of Ukraine "On Free Legal Aid" have the right to court representation. In such cases, lawyers provide comprehensive legal support: analyze case circumstances, prepare and submit procedural documents, and represent the client's interests in court hearings.
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