The Legal Representation and Advisory  is a core program of Lex Initiative for Rights Advocacy and Development (LIRAD), designed to provide comprehensive legal support to marginalised women, particularly those who face systemic barriers to accessing justice. This program offers free legal representation and advisory services to individuals who are often excluded from formal legal systems, including LBQ women, women living with HIV, female sex workers, women who use drugs, and women with disabilities.

Through this program, LIRAD provides pro bono legal assistance to women whose rights have been violated, addressing issues such as wrongful detention, discrimination, gender-based violence (GBV), and violations of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Our legal team offers support at all stages of legal proceedings—from initial consultations and case preparations to courtroom representation and post-trial support. By ensuring that marginalised women have access to quality legal defence and representation, we help safeguard their rights and hold perpetrators accountable.
In addition to representation in court, the Legal Representation and Advisory Service provides legal advice to women seeking guidance on issues such as property rights, family law matters, employment disputes, and other legal challenges. The advisory component of this program empowers women by providing them with knowledge about their rights and options under the law, enabling them to make informed decisions about their lives and legal cases.

This program is also closely linked with our advocacy efforts. LIRAD utilises the findings and outcomes from the cases we handle to inform broader policy advocacy. By identifying patterns of injustice and systemic legal gaps, we advocate for reforms that address the root causes of discrimination and inequality faced by marginalised women.

Through the Legal Representation and Advisory Service, LIRAD is not only providing immediate relief to individuals but also working to reshape the legal landscape to be more inclusive and equitable for all women. Our goal is to create a system where every woman, regardless of her background or identity, can access justice, protection, and dignity.