Many Jamaicans are unaware that legal assistance is available free of cost for eligible persons facing criminal charges, as well as free legal advice for members of the public.

The Legal Aid Council (LAC) plays an important role in ensuring that persons of low or moderate means have access to legal representation and guidance when they need it most.

Speaking on the JIS Television ‘Get the Facts’ programme recently, Executive Director of the Legal Aid Council, Dian Watson, said the LAC was established by the Government to ensure that persons who are detained, arrested or charged with a criminal offence can have an attorney if they cannot afford to retain one.