Jeremy Sutton: The high legal cost of getting protection from an abusive partner 4 Mar, 2021 04:32 AM 6 minutes to read New Zealand has an extremely high rate of family violence. Photo / 123RF NZ Herald OPINION: New Zealand has a legal aid programme available for people trying to resolve a problem in court but cannot afford a lawyer. Legal aid is funded by the Government and enables people on low incomes to obtain legal help. This system ensures that people are not denied access to justice because they cannot afford to pay a lawyer. Who qualifies for legal aid? Whether you qualify for legal aid depends on how much you earn, what property you own and whether you have any financially dependent children. If you have a partner, their income and assets will also be considered in your application.