The Legal Aid Network Against Antigypsyism

The Legal Aid Network Against Antigypsyism is part of the Reporting and Information Centre on Antigypsyism (MIA) and is funded by the Office of the Federal Commissioner for Antigypsyism and for the Life of Sinti and Roma (Beauftragter der Bundesregierung gegen Antiziganismus und für das Leben der Sinti und Roma in Deutschland), using resources from the Federal Ministry for Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ).

An initial overview of key areas of work is available in our flyers – translated into several languages.

Flyer Leichte Sprache

Flyer Rumänisch

Flyer Bulgarisch

Free Initial Legal Consultation

The Legal Aid Network offers free initial legal consultations to individuals affected by antigypsyism. Many of the incidents reported to MIA are also legally relevant, but those affected often lack access to legal guidance. The network provides information on legal options and, upon request, offers an initial consultation covering all areas of law.

A Nationwide Network of Lawyers

If individuals choose to take legal action, the network:

-Provides information on available financial aid for legal proceedings, including funding from the state or private legal aid funds

-Refers clients to qualified lawyers experienced in antigypsyism-related cases across various legal areas such as tenancy law, labor law, asylum and residency law, or criminal law

The participating lawyers have committed to representing Sinti and Roma clients and are familiar with the specific challenges posed by antigypsyism. They form a dedicated pool within the network, ensuring accessible and competent legal support throughout Germany. In addition, members of the lawyer pool benefit from opportunities for training, professional exchange, and networking.

Workshops and Training

The Legal Support Network offers legal workshops for Sinti and Roma self-organizations and support services. These workshops aim to strengthen these organizations in their role as key points of contact for those affected – especially in providing legal orientation and support during legal proceedings.

FAQs

What is the Legal Aid Network Against Antigypsyism?

It is a project run by the Reporting and Information Centre on Antigypsyism (MIA). It supports people affected by antigypsyism who wish to assert their rights in legally relevant situations. The network supports individuals who have experienced legally actionable discrimination — for example by public authorities, landlords, or employers — and informs them of their legal options.

What services does the Legal Support Network provide?

The network offers a free initial consultation with a fully qualified legal expert to assess whether a legal case is viable. If needed, it can recommend lawyers from the MIA network. All consultations are strictly confidential. Legal experts are bound by professional secrecy and will not share information with MIA unless explicitly authorized by the client. The network also provides workshops in relevant areas of law for self-organizations.

What types of legal issues can I bring to the network?

The network provides legal assessments for cases involving antigypsyist discrimination, including but not limited to:

Workplace or housing discrimination
Misconduct by police or security personnel
Criminal law issues
Matters related to asylum, residency, and immigration law

Can the Legal Aid Network represent me in court?

No, the network only offers an initial consultation and, if desired, refers individuals to lawyers within its pool.

Will the network cover the legal costs of a trial?

No. However, during the initial consultation, you will receive information on potential financial aid options for legal proceedings, including state-supported legal aid or assistance from foundations and advocacy organizations.

How can I contact the Legal Support Network?

The network is part of MIA and can be contacted via:
Phone: +49 (0)30 23 56 18 41
Email: rechtshilfenetzwerk@mia-bund.de

How is my data protected?

As part of its work, the legal support network offers free initial legal consultations and, upon request, can refer you to suitable legal counsel.

If you choose to use this service, we will process your data in order to provide you with a legal assessment and, if applicable, a recommendation. Our goal is to support you in asserting your rights.

Effective data protection is a fundamental principle of our work. Legal consultations often involve the sharing of highly sensitive information. It is essential that you can trust us to handle this information responsibly and to protect it to the best of our ability.

When you contact us to request a consultation, we will inform you about who is responsible for processing your data, how your data will be handled during the legal consultation process, and what rights you have regarding your data.