Victoria Legal Aid Handbook for Lawyers

Applications signed by children

Victoria Legal Aid (VLA) will accept an application signed by a child if the child understands the nature of the proceedings and their obligations under a grant of legal assistance and, either:

  • there is a conflict of interest between the child and their parent or guardian
  • it is not practical nor appropriate for the parent or guardian to complete and sign the application
  • the parent or guardian is not willing to help the child.

If the Family Court requests that an independent children’s lawyer be appointed

In a family law matter, if the Family Court requests that an independent children’s lawyer be appointed to represent a child or children, then VLA does not require the child or children to apply for a grant of legal assistance.

Reviewed 21 February 2022

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