Finding legal help in Japan as a foreigner can feel impossible — but there are genuine resources. This guide covers free consultations, emergency legal aid, and how to find English-speaking attorneys for every type of legal situation.
ℹ️ Estimated legal costs in Japan
Consultation (30 min): ¥5,000–¥15,000. Civil case retainer: ¥200,000–¥500,000. Criminal defense: ¥300,000–¥1,000,000+. Immigration application assistance: ¥30,000–¥150,000. Gyosei shoshi (immigration specialist): ¥15,000–¥80,000. Free options are available for low-income individuals through Houterasu.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Japan Legal Support Center (Houterasu) — free consultations
Houterasu (0570-078374, Mon–Fri 9am–9pm, Sat 9am–5pm) provides free legal information and, for qualifying individuals, subsidized attorney fees. They have multilingual support and can refer you to English-speaking attorneys.
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Japan Federation of Bar Associations (JFBA)
JFBA operates free 30-minute consultations at local bar association offices. The Foreign Language Consultation Corner offers consultations in English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and Portuguese. Find locations at nichibenren.or.jp.
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Your embassy's attorney list
Every major embassy in Japan maintains a list of local attorneys who speak English (and who have represented nationals of that country). Contact your embassy and request their "list of attorneys." This is often the fastest route to a trustworthy English-speaking lawyer.
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For criminal defense: JFBA duty lawyer system
If you are arrested or detained, you are entitled to one free consultation with a duty lawyer (toban bengoshi). Request this immediately. Call 0570-078374. This lawyer can attend interrogations, negotiate with police, and advise on your rights.
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For immigration matters: immigration specialists (gyosei shoshi)
Gyosei shoshi are certified immigration specialists — not lawyers, but authorized to handle immigration paperwork and applications. Many speak English and are significantly cheaper than attorneys for straightforward immigration matters.
Official Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there English-speaking lawyers in Japan?
Yes, particularly in Tokyo, Osaka, and other major cities. Your embassy maintains a list. The Japan Federation of Bar Associations (JFBA) also offers English-language consultations.
Is legal help free in Japan for foreigners?
Free initial consultations are available through JFBA bar association offices and Houterasu (Japan Legal Support Center). If your income is below a threshold, Houterasu provides subsidized legal fees.
How do I contact a lawyer in Japan in an emergency?
For criminal matters: call the JFBA duty lawyer line 0570-078374 (24/7). For other emergencies: contact Houterasu at 0570-078374 (9am–9pm weekdays). Your embassy can also provide urgent referrals.
What is the difference between a lawyer (bengoshi) and immigration specialist (gyosei shoshi) in Japan?
Bengoshi (attorneys) can handle all legal matters including court representation. Gyosei shoshi are certified to handle administrative procedures like visa applications but cannot represent you in court. For immigration paperwork, a gyosei shoshi is usually sufficient and cheaper.
Gaijin Support Editorial Team
Japan Life Support Specialists
Written by a team of foreign residents in Japan with combined 50+ years of experience navigating Japanese legal, medical, and administrative systems.
Reviewed by Kenji Tanaka, Esq., Licensed Japanese Attorney (bengoshi) · Last updated June 2026