# Free criminal lawyer in Georgia: who qualifies

When the state pays for a defence lawyer in a Georgian criminal case, who counts as unable to pay, what mandatory defence means and how to ask for a lawyer.
[Criminal defense](https://mmlaw.ge/en/criminal-defense-lawyer/) · October 9, 2026 · 4 min read

Everyone has the right to a lawyer in a criminal case. If you can't afford one, in some cases the state pays for your defence — through the Legal Aid Service (legalaid.ge).

## When you are entitled to a free lawyer

Under Article 46 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the state pays for the defence in two situations:

- You are unable to pay and ask for a lawyer to be appointed

- Your case is one of mandatory defence and you have no private lawyer

## Who counts as unable to pay

Mainly a member of a family registered in the database of socially vulnerable families with a rating score of 70,000 or less. For some groups the threshold is 100,000. The detailed rules are set by Government Resolution No. 424.

## Mandatory defence — when a lawyer is required

Under Article 45, the accused must have a lawyer in cases including when they:

- Are a minor

- Don't speak the language of the proceedings

- Cannot defend themselves because of a disability

- Have been ordered to undergo a forensic psychiatric examination

- Face a possible life sentence

- Are negotiating a plea agreement

- Are tried by a jury

In these cases, if you have no private lawyer, the state appoints one regardless of your income.

## How to get a free lawyer

- Ask for a lawyer as soon as you are arrested or before any questioning — tell the investigator, prosecutor or judge.

- The prosecution and the judge must immediately contact the Legal Aid Service.

- You can also apply to the Legal Aid Service yourself.

## Free or private lawyer

Many state-appointed lawyers are experienced professionals. The main difference is that you choose a private lawyer yourself — their experience, specialisation and how much time they give your case. You can hire a private lawyer at any stage, even if the case started with a state-appointed one.
This article is general information and does not replace advice from a lawyer on your specific case.
Every case is different — don't rely on general information. Contact a lawyer for advice.

[Criminal defence lawyer](https://mmlaw.ge/en/criminal-defense-lawyer/)

## Frequently asked questions

### Is free legal aid only for criminal cases?

No. The Legal Aid Service also helps people who can't pay in some civil and administrative cases, and gives free consultations to everyone.

### Can I choose my free lawyer?

As a rule, the Legal Aid Service appoints the lawyer. If you want to choose your lawyer yourself, you can hire a private lawyer at any stage.

### Can a relative find a private lawyer for me?

Yes. When someone is detained, it is often family members who find the lawyer. The key is to do it as quickly as possible.

Blog

## All articles

- [Criminal defense](https://mmlaw.ge/en/blog/how-to-choose-a-lawyer-in-georgia/) — How to choose a good lawyer in Georgia: 6 tips October 9, 2026 · 4 min read

- [Property crimes](https://mmlaw.ge/en/blog/fraud-charges-in-georgia/) — Fraud charges in Georgia: penalties and your defence October 6, 2026 · 4 min read

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Source: https://mmlaw.ge/en/blog/free-lawyer-legal-aid-georgia/ · MMLAW · +995 551 00 43 00 · info@mmlaw.ge