The purpose of Aarhus Retshjælp is to ensure justice for everyone, regardless of economic status.
Aarhus Retshjælp has provided free legal assistance and has existed as an independent institution since 1935, making it the second oldest legal aid institution in Denmark. At the same time, with more than 3,800 annual inquiries, it is the second largest legal aid in Denmark.
As an independent institution, Aarhus Retshjælp is independent of private and public interests. It receives an annual operational subsidy from the Civil Affairs Agency.
The daily management is overseen by Aarhus Retshjælp's manager and assistant manager, while the Board is responsible for major decisions regarding daily operations.
The legal personal advice is provided by approximately 20 advisors who offer voluntary and unpaid assistance to the users of Aarhus Retshjælp. The advisors work in pairs and are law students in the final stages of their education or newly graduated lawyers. The advice is given under the supervision of the managers or the three professional leaders. The advisors have a regular weekly shift.
It is crucial for good advice that our assistance is tailored to the client's needs.
In 2010, Aarhus Retshjælp celebrated its 75th anniversary, and a commemorative publication was released, which offers more insight into the history of the legal aid service.
Aarhus Retshjælp's journey began in 1935, primarily driven by lawyers who wanted to support the local community by offering free legal advice. Over the years, Aarhus Retshjælp has adapted to the changing needs of society and has evolved into an important institution that offers a wide range of legal aid services.
From the beginning, Aarhus Retshjælp has focused on helping individuals with legal issues who otherwise would not have had access to legal assistance. This includes everything from advice on family law issues to assistance with debt and tenancy cases. The ability of the legal aid service to adapt and grow has ensured that it continues to fulfill its purpose of ensuring justice and equal access to legal aid.
Over the years, Aarhus Retshjælp has also contributed to the development of Denmark's future lawyers by offering practical experiences to law students. This has not only contributed to the students' education but has also ensured that the legal aid service has access to volunteers who are essential for providing free advice.
This model has proven to be sustainable and has helped to create a strong community around the legal aid service.
Aarhus Retshjælp has also faced challenges. Nevertheless, the legal aid service has managed to overcome these challenges through support from the local community and volunteer contributions. This support has been crucial in ensuring that Aarhus Retshjælp can continue to offer its services to those who need them the most.
Looking to the future, the need for legal assistance continues to grow as society becomes more complex. Our institution faces new challenges that it must navigate, but its fundamental mission to provide legal aid and promote justice remains unchanged. With a continued focus on adaptation and innovation, Aarhus Retshjælp will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role in the local community and in the lives it touches.
The annual operating costs of Aarhus Retshjælp is 2 million kr.. The expenses are covered by operational subsidies from Civilstyrelsen.
Number of inquiries in 2023
personal inquiries
telephone inquiries
Our door is open to anyone, regardless of background or needs. We are particularly dedicated to supporting the most resource-poor in society, those who often stand without other options for legal assistance.
Monday at 16.00-19.00
Tuesday at 16.00-19.00
Wednesday at 13.00-16.00
Wednesday at 16.00-19.00 (Immigration law advice)*
Thursday at 11.00-16.00
Friday at 10.00-13.00
*The Immigration law advice is reserved for advice on Danish citizenship and residence permits.
86 20 82 70