Whether you're in trouble with the police or you just want to know about your legal rights, there are organisations out there that can provide you with advice.
All legal advice is given confidentially. This means that whatever you say won't be told to anyone else without your permission. This includes the police and your parents or guardians.
The following Victorian organisations can provide free and confidential legal advice.
Victoria Legal Aid
Victoria Legal Aid provides legal aid to anyone in the community who needs it, in an efficient and affordable way. You can call them on 1300 792 387.
Youth Law Australia
Youth Law Australia (YLA) is a community legal service dedicated to helping children and young people in Australia and their supporters to find a legal solution to their problems. If you are under 25 (or an advocate for someone who is under 18), you can call YLA on 1800 950 570 or reach out through the get help form on their website.
Disability Discrimination Legal Service
The Disability Discrimination Legal Service provides advice, information, referrals and casework assistance to people with a disability who are facing problems relating to discrimination. You can contact them on (03) 9654 8644 (Melbourne), 1300 882 872 (non-metro) or info@ddls.org.au.
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service provides legal services and information for people from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background. Their main office is based in Melbourne, with six regional offices in Bairnsdale, Heywood, Mildura, Morwell, Shepparton and Swan Hill. Their site also has a series of fact sheets and publications. You can call them on 1800 064 865 (free call).
Victoria Law Foundation
Victoria Law Foundation is an independent organisation dedicated to making the law accessible. It provides training in understanding the law as well as a range of free and low-cost publications.
Community legal centres
Finally, there are a number of community legal centres operating throughout Victoria who may be able to provide advice and assistance. Contact their head office on (03) 9652 1500 or send them an online query.