Glossary

apoio judiciário

Published 8 November 2026, 22:44
apoio judiciário (state help with court costs)

Help for those who cannot afford to go to court: the state waives or reduces court fees and costs, allows payment in instalments and, if needed, appoints a lawyer at its own expense. Eligibility is assessed on the family's income and assets, and the application is made to Segurança Social. It also applies in magistrates' courts.

Where you come across it. You need to take someone to court or defend yourself in court, and you cannot afford the fees or a lawyer.
Apply in advance: the help does not refund what you have already paid. Nor does it mean the case is won — if you lose, you may still be ordered to pay the other side's costs.