Project definitions Lawyer Child A person qualified and authorised according to national law to plead and act on behalf of his or her clients, to engage in the practice of law, to appear before the courts or advise and represent his or her clients in legal matters. Any person below the age of 18 years, as provided by Art 1 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. When referring to a child who is suspect or accused person, the term child may extend to persons older than 18 in certain cases as established by the EU Directive (EU) 2016/800 of 11 May 2016. Legal advice Interview The provision of information by a legal aid provider on a person’s legal rights and/or responsibilities and on the manner of and existing possibilities for solving a particular legal issue. The questioning of a suspect or accused person by a law enforcement officer regarding their alleged involvement in a criminal offence or offence. Legal assistance Assistance by a legal aid provider, including, for example, assistance in drafting documents and court pleadings, support in mediation and help in navigating the rules and procedures. Persons in a situation of vulnerability Any person who, because of his or her specific situation or circumstances, requires specific care, attention or assistance. Legal aid lawyer Any person (legal or natural, and whether professionally qualified in law or not) involved in the delivery of State-funded legal aid. Legal aid The provision of legal advice, assistance and/or representation by a legal aid lawyer provider either at no cost or subject to a financial contribution. 6 7