The article presents the issues of free legal aid and citizens advice in the light of applicable law, taking into account the results of public discussion and the evolution of legislative solutions. The system of free legal aid financed from the state budget has been operating in Poland since 2015. The enactment of the act was preceded by a broad discussion which was attended by both legal circles and representatives of non-governmental organizations. However, the adopted solutions did not meet the hopes, and their critical assessment resulted in the commencement of further legislative works. In connection with the amendment of legal provisions, the nature and scope of the concept of citizens advice and its role in relation to free legal aid should be clarified.