Funding Disbursements
in Civil Litigation

Law Aid is a not-for-profit scheme funding civil disbursements in civil litigation matters undertaken by law firms on a pro bono and “no-win, no-fee” basis.

Scheme outline

Who is Law Aid?

Law Aid is a voluntary, not-for-profit scheme that aims to provide access to justice for all Victorians.

As a charitable trust managed by the Law Institute of Victoria and the Victorian Bar Council, we support various forms of civil litigation cases. 

Our mission is to bridge the gap between individuals who cannot afford legal costs and the legal practitioners who are willing to help.

All forms of civil litigation cases are supported including:

  • Personal injury claims
  • Claims against institutions involving discrimination or oppressive behaviour
  • Professional negligence claims
  • Wills and estates claims.
 

Working together to make a difference

Helping Your Legal Practice

While many legal professionals are willing to assist clients in need, the associated costs can be burdensome for law firms.

Through their civil disbursement funding service, Law Aid offers a practical solution to these financial challenges, enabling you to make a meaningful impact on those who face barriers in accessing justice.

Our comprehensive support covers various disbursements, including fees for expert reports, travel expenses, filing fees, jury fees, and witness expenses.

Recent cases supported by the scheme include:

Personal injury claims

Professional negligence claims

Common Law claims arising from serious injury certificates

False imprisonment

Property damage claims

Wills and estate claims

VCAT appeals

Sexual harassment and sexual assault

Empowering all Victorians

Current Law Aid Trustees

James Mighell KC (Chair)

Michelle Britbart KC

Andrew Clements KC

Fiona Ryan SC

Anna Vadaketh

Kathryn Booth

Lachlan Singe

Equalising access to justice

The Journey Starts Here

01

Make application to Law Aid

Applications must be made on the Law Aid Application Form and can only be accepted from legal practitioners.

02

Pay Application Fee

This is waived until
31 December 2024.

The non-refundable application fee of $150 may be reinstated after this date.

03

Trustees Determine Outcome

Eligibility for funding is assessed on two bases: your client’s ability to pay and a realistic appraisal of the likely success of the matter.

Explore

Resources

Fund Fee Agreement

All parties must sign the Fund Fee Agreement before Law Aid can disburse funds.

Case Studies