(Reference Office: D.G.IT. – DESK I and Protection Unit)
The diplomatic-consular Mission may provide the fellow citizens subjected to arrest, detention or imprisonment with a list of professionals to whom they may turn for legal representation in court. The Office can also provide information on any forms of legal aid available in the country. Legal costs are borne by the citizens concerned. In cases of proven poverty and in particularly severe cases, financial aid for contributing to paying legal costs relating to criminal proceedings may be provided in the form of:
– a subsidy for residents abroad in the relevant district;
– a loan with promise of repayment for fellow citizens in transit.
Before providing financial aid for fellow citizens detained abroad, the Mission shall first ascertain whether their family members in Italy are willing to pay the related costs.