Legal Aid: Free Legal Help for Those Who Cannot Afford a Lawyer
Legal problems do not wait for you to afford a lawyer. Whether you are facing eviction, dealing with a custody issue, or need help with benefits, free legal help may be available.
Legal Aid Organizations
Legal aid offices provide free civil legal services to low-income individuals. They handle cases involving housing, family law, consumer issues, public benefits, and more. Find your local legal aid at LawHelp.org or LSC.gov.
Common Issues They Handle
- Eviction defense and housing problems
- Domestic violence and protective orders
- Child custody and support
- Public benefits denials and appeals
- Consumer fraud and debt collection
- Immigration (in some offices)
Other Free Legal Resources
- Law school clinics: Supervised law students provide free representation
- Pro bono programs: Volunteer lawyers take cases for free
- Self-help centers: Court-based help for people representing themselves
- Bar association referrals: May include low-cost options
