Official lawyer-assignment route for foreign-related legal matters
Sendai Bar Association Legal Counseling Desk for Foreigners
An official Sendai Bar Association route for foreigners and people dealing with foreign-related legal problems. Applications can be submitted in Japanese or English, after which the desk assigns a lawyer who contacts the applicant to arrange counseling.
Official bar-association routeJapanese / English applicationInterpreter not automatically provided
The current bar-association page lists international family matters such as divorce, custody and inheritance; traffic accidents; debt/loans; employment and other civil/commercial matters; visa status; refugee recognition; and criminal cases.
How to apply
Advance application is required. Use the dedicated web form, or email the official application form to [email protected]. The desk accepts intake in Japanese or English. After the request is received, an assigned lawyer contacts the applicant; this may take a few days depending on availability.
Where counseling happens
The official route says counseling is basically held at the assigned lawyer’s office, not at the Sendai Bar Association building. Make the actual counseling appointment directly with the lawyer once contacted.
Language and fee
If you need counseling in a language other than Japanese, the bar association instructs you to arrange an interpreter yourself. The counseling fee is ¥5,500 including tax for the first 30 minutes. Continued/overtime consultation and retainer fees depend on the lawyer. Some applicants may qualify for Japan Legal Support Center assistance if they meet its conditions.
Sources and freshness
Checked September 26, 2026. Public-service schedules, eligibility, fees, languages, application routes, and legal-service availability can change. Confirm the current route before relying on it.
English intake does not mean the assigned consultation will automatically be conducted in English. The current official rule says applicants who need a language other than Japanese for the counseling should arrange their own interpreter.
