Pro Bono Legal Aid Program

Supporting indigent, vulnerable and marginalized people whose rights are violated to access justice at free cost

9,800+
Criminal Cases Completed
3,400+
Civil Cases Completed
20,000
Active Cases Running

Access to Justice in Action

Empowering vulnerable communities through free legal representation

Legal consultation with client

Legal Consultations

Free advice for vulnerable communities

Courtroom representation

Court Representation

Professional advocacy for justice

Community legal education

Community Education

Raising legal awareness and rights

Legal documents and case files

Case Management

Organized, professional handling of every case

Legal team collaboration

Expert Advocates

Experienced lawyers dedicated to justice

Program Overview

The GOCASI Pro Bono Program started in 2010 (with official pro bono services launching in 2014) to assist and enable indigent, vulnerable, and marginalized persons to access justice. The program is headed by a program manager based at headquarters who supervises all coordinating offices.

Since inception, many people out of reach of legal aid services have received relief, and violators of their rights have been punished or compelled to compensate them. The project registers many criminal cases compared to civil cases, as many human rights abuses are committed against poor people.

Legal Education Videos

Watch our educational videos to learn more about your legal rights and how to access our services

The Reality of Child Violence

Across Uganda, children face physical, emotional, and sexual abuse that threatens their health, dignity, and development.

Corporal Punishment & Abuse of Power

Corporal punishment by parents and teachers remains the most widespread form of child rights violation, causing lasting harm.

Lasting Impact on Children’s Lives

Abuse leaves lifelong scars—affecting mental health, education, relationships, and future opportunities.

Services We Provide

Comprehensive legal services tailored to the needs of vulnerable communities

Areas We Cover

Employment and Industrial Law
Land Rights
Environmental and Health
Human Rights
Administrative Law
Criminal Law
Debt and Credit
Family Law and Succession
Wills and Estates
Child Care and Protection
Tenancies
Women's Rights

What We Don't Cover

Business Law in relation to profit making organizations
Local Government and planning issues
Intractable disputes between Neighbors
Personal injury and professional Negligence

Core Services Include:

  • • Legal advice and representation
  • • Free community legal education
  • • Free legal consultations
Justice scales in courtroomLawyer working on caseLegal documents reviewLegal team meeting

Making Justice Accessible

Our pro bono legal aid program bridges the gap between the legal system and vulnerable communities who cannot afford representation. We provide comprehensive support from initial consultation through case resolution.

Free Legal Representation

Qualified advocates at no cost to clients

Rights Awareness

Community education on legal rights

Professional Standards

High-quality legal service delivery

How We Work

1

Initial Contact

The Pro Bono Manager and program officer make initial contact with clients and assess their needs.

2

Advocate Selection

Suitable advocates are contacted based on their interest, specialty, and expertise for each case.

3

Case Allocation

Files are delivered to selected advocates who sign confidentiality and acceptance forms.

4

Client Introduction

Clients are introduced to their advocates and the first interview is scheduled.

5

Case Management

Advocates regularly update case files using progress forms that are collected and reviewed.

Monitoring & Evaluation

GOCASI monitors and evaluates the performance of advocates to ensure efficient and effective provision of pro bono services.

Development of clear measurable performance indicators

Monthly progress reports from advocates

Regular site visits and stakeholder feedback

Comprehensive monitoring tools and review workshops

Client-Centered Approach

Our advocates are frank, open, and respectful in discussions with clients about what is possible and what is not in the advocate-client relationship.

We understand that pro bono clients are indigent, vulnerable, and marginalized, requiring patience and understanding. Many come as victims of oppression and unjust treatment. Our advocates exhibit the highest standards of professionalism.

Need Legal Assistance?

If you or someone you know needs legal aid and cannot afford representation, contact us today.

Contact Us