When Is a Lawyer Provided by Law in the UAE?

Don't rely solely on government-appointed defense!
The UAE has a clear and structured legal system, where every step of the legal process must be precise. But what if someone ends up in a difficult situation and can’t afford a lawyer?
In which cases is the government truly obligated to provide legal assistance — and how can you avoid being left without protection?
AdvoAssist has compiled key scenarios from Dubai court practice that our clients commonly face.

🖇 In criminal cases — legal defense is mandatory
If someone is charged with a serious crime and cannot afford a lawyer, the court may appoint a defense attorney at the government’s expense.
This applies to cases such as:
— where arrest or imprisonment is possible,
— serious financial or criminal charges,
— cases involving vulnerable groups (women, children, persons with disabilities).
In these cases, the state is interested in ensuring a fair trial — and a lawyer is assigned even without a request from the accused.
🖇 Minors — under special protection
If a party in the case is under 18, the presence of a lawyer is almost always mandatory.
Even if parents believe they can represent the child — the court still appoints legal counsel.
This applies not only to criminal cases, but also to family and even some civil disputes.

🖇 In divorces and child custody disputes — partial support The state does not directly appoint a lawyer, but may refer individuals to:
— the Women and Children’s Protection Foundation,
— Family Protection Centers,
— free legal clinics at the courts.
These institutions may provide:
🔹 initial consultations,
🔹 help with paperwork,
🔹 and, in some cases, a lawyer to accompany the case.

📌 In commercial and civil cases — you’re on your own If the case involves:
— non-payment,
— rental disputes,
— divorce without child custody conflict,
— disputes with a developer,
— breach of contract,
...then no state-appointed lawyer will be provided. It’s entirely up to you to organize the legal defense of your interests.

❗️ What you need to keep in mind:
— Even if a lawyer is appointed, they may not be able to dedicate as much time to your case as a lawyer you choose yourself.
— Government-appointed defense is a basic level of protection, designed to ensure minimum rights.
— If the matter involves business, real estate, or immigration status — this basic level may not be enough.

📩 Need a lawyer in the UAE but don’t know where to start? AdvoAssist helps you find a verified legal professional tailored to your specific situation: whether it’s criminal defense, family disputes, business, corporate, or property matters.
🔹 We select lawyers who:
— know the local legal system,
— speak your language,
— and know how to act in the client’s best interest.

⚖️ The law is not your enemy — when you have a professional on your side.
Let us be that professional for you 💜