About the Public Solicitor’s Office
The Public Solicitor’s Office (PSO) is an independent public office established under the Constitution of the Solomon Islands to provide legal aid, advice and assistance to persons in need.
The PSO helps Solomon Islanders with their legal problems provided that they meet certain eligibility criterias which takes into account the person’s individual circumstances including their financial situation and the nature of their legal problem, as well as other factors such as age, disability and communication difficulties.
The PSO has lawyers who can help the general public to understand their legal rights and responsibilities, and navigate the legal system providing advice and representation under four divisions.
The services of lawyers at the PSO are FREE. If any lawyer tries to charge you for legal advice or assistance, you should immediately contact the Public Solicitor (The head of the PSO). However, there are court fees that will need to be paid to the High Court or the Magistrate’s Courts if you file a claim. Information about these fees can be obtained from the courts or from your lawyer.
In instances where the PSO is unable to represent a client in Court, usually due to the eligibility guideline, information will be given to the client to ensure that they are able to effectively represent themselves.
“Defending the rights of the most disadvantaged people of the Solomon Islands.”
Our Services
Criminal Division
The Division provides legal representation and advice in serious criminal matters in the Magistrates’ Courts, High Court, and Court of Appeal. PSO lawyers are available on request when a person is taken into custody or charged with an offence. Alternatively, a family member may contact the PSO to ask for representation for a person in custody. Or the person charged can attend a legal clinic held once a week.
Land Advisory and Legal Support Unit (LALSU)
The Unit provides advice, education and legal representation to people who need assistance with logging or mining matters and customary land matters.
Civil Unit
Civil law matters include employment and workers’ compensation, personal injury, money claims, restraining orders, property claims and defamation. If you have a letter of administration claim, you should contact the Public Trustee at the Ministry of Lands.
Family Protection Unit
The Family Protection Unit assists clients with family matters including divorce, adoption, protection orders, maintenance and custody matters where legal representation is provided in the Magistrates Courts, High Court and Court of Appeal.
Express Directory
Here you will find the direct contact details for the Public Solicitor’s Office in Gizo and Auki. Please feel free to get in touch should you have any queries you wish to discuss.
Gizo Office (next to the Gizo Magistrate’s Court) PO BOX Gizo 84 |
Phone: (677) 60682 Fax: (677) 60684 |
Auki Office (within the precincts of the Auki Magistrate’s Court) PO BOX Auki 44 |
Phone: (677) 40008 / 40006 Fax: (677) 40230 |
Location
If you’re in the Solomon Islands and wish to visit us, our office location is provided below for your convenience. We look forward to welcoming you.