Independent Office of the Public Solicitor
Providing Access
to Justice for
Every Citizen.
The Office of Public Solicitor provides free legal representation to impecunious persons across Papua New Guinea — in criminal, civil, and legal aid matters. Our digital portal lets you track your case online, anytime.
What We Do
Access Justice Online
Free legal services, aid, and representation available to every Papua New Guinean.
Services
Legal Services
Criminal, civil, and legal aid services provided free of charge to qualifying persons across PNG.
Aid
Legal Aid
Understand who qualifies, how to apply, your rights, and what to expect from the OPS.
Offices
Our Offices
Eight offices nationwide — Port Moresby, Lae, Goroka, Mt. Hagen, Madang, Rabaul, Wabag, and Kimbe.
Track Your Case Online
Once registered as an OPS client, access your case information digitally — anytime, anywhere.
Register with OPS
Visit your nearest OPS office, lodge your legal aid application, and receive your secure portal credentials.
Sign In Securely
Log in with your email and password from any device, anywhere in Papua New Guinea.
Track Your Case
View case status, download documents, check payments, and receive real-time updates.
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Claims By & Against the State Act 1996
Making a Claim Against the State
If your Constitutional rights have been breached by the State or a State authority, you have the right to take legal action. Under Sections 57 and 58 of the Constitution, the National and Supreme Courts can award damages — including exemplary damages — for breach of Constitutional Rights.
- You must give written notice within 6 months of the incident
- Notice must be served on the Attorney General or Solicitor General
- You can apply for an extension of time if the deadline is missed
Documents Required — National Court
Originating Summons
Pleads the orders sought — extension of time to lodge a Notice of Intention to make a claim against the State.
Notice of Motion
Contains the same orders as the Originating Summons, filed at the National Court at Waigani.
Affidavit in Support
Evidence of your reason for delay, medical reports, property damage, and circumstances preventing timely notice.
Any further legal advice is subject to approval by the Public Solicitor. Contact OPS for guidance.