FILE EN-02 / Official routes
Find the Right Legal Information Route in Japan
Separate information, legal advice, court procedure, labour help, consumer help, and human-rights counseling.The word “help” can describe many different services. Before you make contact, write the result that you need. This can prevent several calls to offices that do not handle your type of request.
This publication gives general information, not legal advice.
Choose the function before the office
| What you need | Type of service to look for |
|---|---|
| A general explanation of a Japanese legal system | Legal information service |
| Advice that applies law to your facts | A qualified legal professional who handles that subject |
| Information about filing, forms, or a hearing | The responsible court’s procedure information |
| Help with working conditions | A labour consultation service |
| Help with a purchase or service contract | A consumer consultation service |
| Counseling about discrimination or another human-rights issue | A Legal Affairs Bureau human-rights service |
One office might not do all these tasks. Ask what the service can do, whether an appointment is necessary, what languages are available, and what documents you must bring.
General legal information
The Japan Legal Support Center, also called Houterasu, provides information about the legal system and consultation organizations. Its information service is not the same as legal advice from an attorney or judicial scrivener. The official English pages also explain the multilingual route and the separate conditions that can apply to civil legal aid.
Court procedure information
The Supreme Court of Japan English site gives general guides to civil, criminal, family, and juvenile procedures. It does not choose a claim or strategy for you. Contact the court named on your document for current instructions about that document.
Human-rights counseling
The Ministry of Justice provides Human Rights Counseling for Foreigners. Its official page lists available languages and contact routes. Confirm the current service details on that page before you call or visit.
Questions to ask at first contact
- Does this service handle my type of problem?
- Is the service information, legal advice, mediation, or representation?
- Is English available directly or through an interpreter?
- Is there a fee or an eligibility test?
- Which original documents and copies should I prepare?
Record the office name, contact date, person or desk, next action, and every stated deadline.