Justice Centres Uganda (JCU) is a government initiative under the Justice, Law and Order Sector, supervised by the Judiciary of Uganda. Established in 2009, JCU provides free legal services to indigent, vulnerable, and marginalized individuals and communities across Uganda. Their comprehensive services include legal representation, mediation, support with self-representation, and legal advice through toll-free lines. JCU also conducts community outreaches, trainings on legal rights, and public forums to enhance legal awareness and empower communities to claim their rights.
Renowned for its commitment to professional excellence, ethics, integrity, and accountability, JCU has been recognized as one of the best legal aid service providers in Uganda. A senior DANIDA official praised JCU's robust visibility and the excellent work ethic of its staff, noting the organization's easily recognizable branding and the availability of personnel to listen to clients when they call in. This acknowledgment underscores JCU's dedication to delivering quality legal aid services and its significant impact on the communities it serves.
JCU's client service approach is centered on accessibility and empowerment. By offering free legal advice via toll-free lines and walk-in consultations, JCU ensures that individuals with legal problems can receive assistance promptly. The organization also supports self-representation by providing necessary documents, stationery, legal advice, and preparation on court etiquette and processes. This approach demystifies the court process for clients, enabling them to confidently represent themselves and claim their rights. Through these initiatives, JCU bridges the gap between the supply and demand sides of justice, empowering individuals and communities to demand policy and social change.
