Free Legal Aid & Resources
Access free legal help, advice, and services. Learn how to apply for legal aid and find pro bono attorneys in your area.
Understanding Legal Aid
Legal aid provides free or low-cost legal assistance to individuals who cannot afford private attorneys. Funded by federal, state, and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations, legal aid programs help ensure equal access to justice for all citizens regardless of income.
Services include legal advice, document preparation, court representation, and mediation for civil legal matters such as housing disputes, family law issues, consumer protection, and public benefits.
What Is Legal Aid?
Legal aid is free or reduced-cost legal assistance provided to people who cannot afford a private attorney. Government-funded and nonprofit legal aid organizations help with civil matters including housing, family law, immigration, and public benefits. Eligibility is typically based on household income relative to federal poverty guidelines.
How to Apply for Legal Aid
How Do I Apply for Legal Aid?
To apply for legal aid, contact your local legal aid office or visit their website. Most programs require you to complete an application demonstrating financial eligibility, typically earning below 125-200% of the federal poverty level. Applications can be submitted online, by phone, or in person. Processing usually takes 1-2 weeks.
Check Eligibility
Verify your household income falls below your state's threshold, typically 125-200% of federal poverty guidelines.
Find Local Office
Locate your nearest legal aid office through your state bar association or LSC.gov.
Submit Application
Complete the application online, by phone, or in person with required income documentation.
Get Assistance
Once approved, you'll be assigned an attorney or receive legal guidance for your case.
Types of Free Legal Services
What Free Legal Services Are Available?
Free legal services include legal aid offices, pro bono attorneys, law school clinics, courthouse self-help centers, and online legal form libraries. Many bar associations maintain lawyer referral services with free initial consultations. Specialized programs exist for veterans, seniors, domestic violence victims, and immigrants.
Legal Aid Societies
Nonprofit organizations funded by the government that provide free legal representation for civil matters to low-income individuals. Services cover housing, family law, consumer issues, and government benefits disputes.
Pro Bono Attorneys
Licensed attorneys who volunteer their time to represent clients for free. Many states require attorneys to perform pro bono work or make donations to legal aid. Contact your local bar association for referrals.
Law School Clinics
Law school students, supervised by licensed professors, provide free legal assistance. These clinics specialize in areas like immigration, family law, tax, and criminal defense.
Courthouse Self-Help Centers
Many courthouses offer self-help centers where staff can help you understand court procedures, complete forms, and navigate the legal system without an attorney.
Online Legal Resources
Websites like TexasLawHelp.org, LawHelp.org, and state court websites provide free legal forms, guides, and information for common legal issues.
Common Areas Covered by Legal Aid
More Questions About Legal Aid
What Is the Income Limit for Legal Aid?
Income limits for legal aid vary by state and program but generally fall between 125% and 200% of the federal poverty level. For a single person in 2026, this is approximately $18,000-$30,000 annually. Some programs consider household size, assets, and the nature of the legal issue when determining eligibility.
Can Legal Aid Help With Criminal Cases?
Legal aid organizations primarily handle civil cases. For criminal matters, you have a constitutional right to a public defender if you cannot afford an attorney. Contact your local public defender's office or the court clerk to request appointed counsel for criminal charges.
How Long Does It Take to Get Legal Aid?
Processing times vary by organization and case urgency. Initial applications are typically reviewed within 1-2 weeks. Emergency situations like domestic violence or imminent eviction may receive expedited processing within 24-48 hours. Complex cases may take longer to assign to an attorney.
Need Legal Documents?
While legal aid can help with representation, you can create many legal documents yourself using our premium templates and guides.