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We use the law to change people’s lives

At Law Centre NI, protecting people and their rights is at the heart of everything we do. We offer free, independent and specialist legal advice, casework and representation in the areas of social security, employment and immigration.

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Our areas of work

Our advisers provide free, confidential and specialist advice and legal support on social security, employment and immigration issues.

Social Security

Our social security team provides advice and representation to challenge unfair social security decisions.

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Employment

Our employment team provides advice and representation on employment issues.

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Immigration

Our immigration team provides advice and representation to migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

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Latest news

Keep up to date with all the latest news from Law Centre NI.

Newly granted refugees: updated evidence requirements for UC

The Law Centre is delighted that Department for Communities (DfC) has agreed to amend its policy about acceptable forms of ID for newly-granted refugees to make social security claims.

Law Centre NI Justice First Fellowship sponsored by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom (UK) LLP

Law Centre NI is thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity to join us as a trainee solicitor in 2024 as part of the Legal Education Foundation’s esteemed Justice First Fellowship programme.

Professor Sir Michael G. Marmot delivers Law Centre NI Annual Social Justice Lecture

Internationally renowned Professor Sir Michael G. Marmot delivered Law Centre NI’s annual Social Justice Lecture on Monday 27 November at Belfast City Hall.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

The United Nations General Assembly has designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The Law Centre takes this opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to survivors of domestic violence.

Law Centre NI reaction to Autumn Statement

While measures in the Chancellor's Autumn Statement will ease some of the pressures pushing people into poverty, much more needs to be done to support people on the lowest incomes.

Law Centre NI statement on Supreme Court ruling

Today the Supreme Court has ruled that the Government’s plan to remove asylum seekers to Rwanda is unlawful. This is a welcome victory for justice, compassion, and humanity.

Law Centre NI challenges current HMRC practice on child benefit

Law Centre NI is challenging HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) on how it applies the rules on which a parent is awarded child benefit.

Prove Your Right to Work With a Share Code

What is a Share Code and how do I get one? Our short guide tells you everything you need to know.

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Connect with us

Law Centre NI blog

Read our latest blog: How to pay the bills and rent? Advising migrants who are subject to No Recourse to Public Funds.

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Other areas of our work

Policy

Read about our policy work in the areas of social security, employment and immigration.

Resource library

All our latest publications and resources in one place.

Professional learning

Are you an adviser? Enhance your skills and knowledge through our professional learning programme.

Quality

Quality of advice matters to us.

Group of people smiling putting their hands together

Read about the dynamic and pioneering work of our Migration Justice Project and the team’s dedication to helping refugees, asylum seekers and migrant communities in Northern Ireland.

Find out more about the Migration Justice Project

For over 45 years, Law Centre NI has been working for social justice in Northern Ireland. During that time, we have helped thousands of people challenge decisions that affect their rights through free, independent and specialist legal advice, casework and representation.

+128%

Last year we gave 30,615 pieces of legal advice – an increase of 128% from the previous year.

583

We helped 583 clients with legal challenges during 2020-2021.

£890K

Last year we achieved over £890,000 in financial settlements for our clients.

Little girl resting her head on her dad's shoulder

Owen McCloskey from Law Centre NI went above and beyond in helping me with my case. Owen, to put it simply, was with me every step of the journey, showing an empathy and determination which eventually led to my case being more than satisfactorily resolved."

Michael O'Donnell

One of our clients

Winning the appeal has changed everything for me. Not only will I get the benefits I need, but the benefit cap has been lifted. Things have been so difficult for us, but now we can concentrate on our life and our health."

'Aminah'

Law Centre NI client

It is only now that I feel I can begin to lift my head from the stress and anxiety. Whenever I expressed my work situation to others, I felt that it fell on deaf ears until I came across you...You were able to listen to my situation, give me specific and relevant advice of my options and help me to see my case through in an unbiased manner."

'Peter'

A client who sought employment advice

We have nothing but praise for our Law Centre NI caseworker. We were inspired by her knowledge, honesty and work ethic. She was logical and so very professional in her approach and was thoroughly dependable. Thank you isn't enough. A 1000 'thank yous' wouldn't be enough."

Jacqueline

A client who got help with her PIP appeal