Where can I go for legal advice, for example about employment law and the Dutch housing law?
Everybody is entitled to legal aid no matter whether the person concerned has a residence permit or not. The Juridisch Loket [legal help desk] provides assistance with legal questions. Well-trained lawyers give advice and information free of charge, under confidential circumstances.
If you have more complicated questions which require the assistance of a lawyer, the Juridisch Loket can refer you to a specialized lawyer. For people without income most lawyers charge a small fee for their services. With a referral issued by the Juridisch Loket (diagnosis document) the assistance given by the lawyer will be even cheaper. This does, however, require a statement about the income.
In some cities you can also consult Legal Aid [Rechtswinkel].
Where can I go for advice about the possibilities with respect to obtaining a residence permit?
Support organizations for people without residence permits have a lot of legal expertise. You will find their addresses below. You can also contact a specialized lawyer for advice. To this type of advice the same rules apply as to the other forms of legal advice – most lawyers charge a small fee for people without income. With a referral issued by the Juridisch Loket (diagnosis document) the assistance provided by the lawyer will be even cheaper. However, for this reduced fee you need a statement about your income.
How can I become eligible for a fee reduction at the lawyer?
This is decided by the Raad voor Rechtsbijstand [legal aid board] if you availed yourself of the assistance provided by the Juridisch Loket or by a lawyer. The Raad voor Rechtsbijstand checks your income. If you have no (fixed) income, or no money at all it is wise to explain how you pay for your living expenses when you apply for free legal assistance. If you live together with a partner, the partner’s income will be counted as well.