Fee Disputes, Mistakes and Official Help
Free and Low-Cost Legal Help: Legal Aid, Public Defenders, Clinics and More
Where to find free or affordable legal help in the U.S.: legal aid eligibility, public defenders, law school clinics, pro bono programs, referral services and court self-help.
If you cannot afford a private lawyer, you have several options. For civil problems such as eviction, benefits, debt, domestic violence or family safety, start with a legal aid organization in your area; many are funded in part by the Legal Services Corporation and help people with low incomes for free. If you are charged with a crime that could lead to jail, you can ask the court to appoint a public defender. Law school clinics, bar association pro bono programs, lawyer referral services and court self-help centers fill many of the remaining gaps.
The catch is that free civil legal help is limited. There is no general constitutional right to a free lawyer in civil cases, and many legal aid offices have to turn away eligible people because of limited resources. Apply early and to more than one source.
Your main options at a glance
| Source | Who it helps | Cost | How to find it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal aid organization | Low-income households with civil legal problems | Free | LawHelp.org, LSC's program finder, 211 |
| Public defender or appointed counsel | People charged with crimes that can lead to incarceration who cannot afford a lawyer | Free or reduced, depending on the jurisdiction | Ask at your first court appearance |
| Law school clinic | Varies by clinic; often low-income clients in specific areas | Free | Contact law schools in your state |
| Pro bono program | Low- and moderate-income people; often screened by legal aid | Free | State or local bar association |
| Lawyer referral service | Anyone who needs a lawyer | Often a modest set fee for a first consultation, then normal fees | State or local bar association, ABA directory |
| Court self-help center | People representing themselves | Free | State or county court website |
| Modest-means program | People above legal aid limits but unable to pay full rates | Reduced rates | Some state bars and referral services |
Legal aid: eligibility and what is covered
Legal aid organizations focus on civil problems that affect basic needs: housing and eviction, public benefits, domestic violence protection, consumer debt and some family law matters. Programs funded by the Legal Services Corporation generally serve people with household incomes at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines, with limited exceptions up to 200% in certain circumstances, and must also follow restrictions on the types of cases they can take. Organizations with other funding may have different limits.
Illustrative eligibility check
The federal poverty guideline for a household changes every year and is published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. If, for illustration, the guideline for your household size were $27,000, then 125% would be 27,000 x 1.25 = $33,750. A household with income at or below that level would meet the general LSC income test. Use the current year's official guideline for a real check.
Expect an intake interview about your income, assets, household and legal problem. Have pay stubs, benefit letters and any court papers ready.
Public defenders in criminal cases
Under the Sixth Amendment, as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court, a person who cannot afford a lawyer has the right to appointed counsel in felony cases and in misdemeanor cases where a sentence of imprisonment is actually imposed. Each state runs its own system through public defender offices, contract lawyers or court-appointed private lawyers. Some jurisdictions charge an application fee or may later order partial repayment based on ability to pay. Ask about appointed counsel at your first court appearance or arraignment.
Rights to counsel in some civil cases
A small but growing number of cities and states provide a right to counsel for tenants facing eviction, and some states appoint lawyers in matters such as termination of parental rights or involuntary commitment. Check your state and city court websites or a local legal aid office to see what applies where you live.
Law school clinics and pro bono programs
Law school clinics let supervised students represent clients in specific areas, such as housing, immigration, small business or wills. Bar associations and legal aid groups run pro bono programs that match volunteer lawyers with eligible clients. Both usually screen applicants for income and case type, and both have limited capacity.
Lawyer referral services and modest-means programs
If you do not qualify for free help, a bar-sponsored lawyer referral service can match you with a lawyer and often arranges an initial consultation for a modest fee. Some state bars and referral services also run reduced-fee or "modest means" panels. Ask about limited-scope representation as a way to keep costs down, and see the guide to consultation fees.
Court self-help centers and fee waivers
Many state courts run self-help centers, online and in person, with forms, instructions and staff who can explain procedures, though not give legal advice. If you cannot afford court filing fees, ask about a fee waiver; see the guide to court costs and litigation expenses.
Other specialized free help
- Veterans: accredited representatives of veterans service organizations help with VA benefit claims without charge.
- Taxes: the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program helps eligible taxpayers prepare returns, and Low Income Taxpayer Clinics help with disputes with the IRS.
- Seniors: many areas have legal services for older adults funded through the Older Americans Act; contact your local Area Agency on Aging.
For other ways to make legal help affordable, see paying legal fees over time and return to the guide to legal fee disputes if you have a problem with a lawyer you already hired.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have a right to a free lawyer in a civil case?
Generally not, but some jurisdictions provide counsel in specific civil matters, such as eviction in certain cities. Legal aid organizations can help eligible people with many civil problems.
What if I earn slightly too much for legal aid?
Ask about modest-means programs, lawyer referral services, law school clinics and limited-scope help. Some legal aid offices also have programs with higher limits for certain groups.
Can a public defender handle my civil case?
Usually no. Public defenders represent people in criminal matters. Ask them for a referral to legal aid for civil issues.
How do I find legal aid near me?
Start with LawHelp.org or the Legal Services Corporation's website, or call 211 for local referrals.
Sources
- Legal Services Corporation — find LSC-funded legal aid and eligibility rules
- LawHelp.org — directory of free legal aid and information by state
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services — current federal poverty guidelines
- Internal Revenue Service — VITA and Low Income Taxpayer Clinics
- American Bar Association — lawyer referral and pro bono directories
