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About

Independent Office of the Public Solicitor

The Independent Office of the Public Solicitor is a constitutional institution of Papua New Guinea established to provide free legal representation to impecunious persons — citizens who cannot afford private legal counsel.

The Public Solicitor serves as the "Public Defender", representing accused persons in serious criminal matters across Grade Five Courts, the National Courts, and the Supreme Court of Justice. The Office also manages a wide range of civil legal matters through its Civil Section.

The OPS plays a pivotal role in ensuring that no person or entity is above the law, removing the perception that there are two sets of laws — one for the common people and one for the rich and powerful. All persons are equally protected under the law.

The OPS LCMS (Legal Case Management System) is our digital initiative to modernize legal services, improve transparency, and make case information accessible to clients nationwide.

50+

Years of Service

8

Provincial Offices

1000s

Clients Assisted

100%

Free Legal Aid

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Independent Office of the Public Solicitor · Papua New Guinea

“Providing Access to Justice for Impecunious Persons in Papua New Guinea”

— OPS Mission Statement