Massachusetts Request for Counsel is a court-mandated process in which Massachusetts residents may petition the court for access to free legal assistance. This request is applicable to those who cannot afford to hire a lawyer for their case. The request can be made before the court for a variety of reasons, including criminal defense, family law, civil litigation, and more. There are two types of Massachusetts Request for Counsel: the Preliminary Request for Counsel and the Final Request for Counsel. The Preliminary Request for Counsel is an initial application and is the first step to obtaining a lawyer. The Final Request for Counsel is made after the court has reviewed the Preliminary Request and granted the petitioner access to a lawyer.