Avropa dövlətlərinin hüquq sistemlərində və Azərbaycan Respublikasında ödənişsiz (dövlət hesabına) hüquqi yardımın müqayisəli təhlili: normativ və institusional aspektlər

This article presents a comparative legal analysis of free legal aid systems in selected European countries and the Republic of Azerbaijan, focusing on their normative and institutional frameworks. Drawing on the examples of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, and Azerbaijan, the study examines key components such as legislative regulation, eligibility criteria, the nature and scope of legal services provided, and remuneration mechanisms for legal aid lawyers. Special attention is devoted to the two dominant models of legal aid provision — the “judicare” and “welfare” systems—and their application within the Azerbaijani context.The study underscores the fundamental principle that access to justice requires legal assistance to be not only formally available but also practically effective, in line with the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights. Furthermore, the analysis explores the quality of legal representation, procedures for replacing court-appointed lawyers, levels of professional training, and the extent of digitalization in the provision of legal aid services. The role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in supporting vulnerable groups is also highlighted. In conclusion, the paper advocates for systematic reforms in Azerbaijan's legal aid system, including the adoption of a dedicated “Law on Free Legal Aid”, increased state funding, enhanced lawyer training mechanisms, and improved monitoring and accountability procedures. The alignment of domestic practices with international standards, particularly those of the United Nations and the Council of Europe, is emphasized as a strategic priority. Keywords: legal aid, access to justice, judicare model, welfare model, Azerbaijan, comparative law, European Court of Human Rights, NGOs, legal assistance.