Free legal help and legal aid near you
Free legal help is available through legal aid societies, law school clinics, and pro bono attorneys for people who cannot afford a lawyer. Most legal aid organizations serve low-income individuals for civil matters — including eviction, domestic violence, immigration, benefits, and family law. Call 211 or search ClearHelp for local legal aid near you.
Fastest options first
If you have received an eviction notice or summons, contact legal aid immediately. Lawyers can represent you in court for free and may delay or stop the eviction.
DV advocates and legal aid attorneys can help you file for a protective order, often same-day or within 24 hours in emergencies.
Many legal aid societies and law schools run weekly walk-in clinics where you can speak with an attorney at no cost. Hours and availability vary.
State bar associations operate pro bono referral programs that match low-income clients with volunteer attorneys for civil matters.
What you may need to bring
- Any notices, court documents, or letters you have received
- Photo ID
- Proof of income (to establish eligibility for legal aid)
- Lease or rental agreement (for housing cases)
- Timeline of events written down
- Names and contact information of anyone involved
What to expect
Legal aid intake involves a screening for eligibility (usually income-based) and a brief description of your legal issue. If accepted, you will be assigned to an attorney or paralegal. For eviction cases, this process often moves quickly. For other civil matters, wait times vary. If legal aid cannot take your case, they can refer you to other resources.
Find local resources near you
Enter your ZIP code on the search page to see verified local options sorted by distance and availability.
Frequently asked questions
- How do I find free legal help near me?
- Search ClearHelp by ZIP code or call 211 to find legal aid societies, law school clinics, and pro bono programs near you. Most legal aid organizations have income eligibility requirements — typically 125–200% of the federal poverty level.
- What types of cases does legal aid handle?
- Legal aid typically handles civil cases including eviction and housing, domestic violence and protective orders, family law (custody, divorce), immigration, public benefits denials, consumer debt, and civil rights. Legal aid does not handle criminal cases — for that, you need a public defender.
- What is the income limit for legal aid?
- Most legal aid organizations serve people at or below 125–200% of the federal poverty level. Income limits vary by organization and case type. Even if you are slightly above the limit, ask — some programs have higher thresholds for specific cases like DV.
- What if I have a court date soon?
- Contact legal aid immediately and explain your court date. Most organizations prioritize time-sensitive cases, especially eviction and protective orders. If legal aid cannot represent you, ask about a brief consultation or self-help resources for your hearing.
- Can undocumented immigrants get legal help?
- Yes. Many legal aid organizations and immigration clinics serve undocumented immigrants, particularly for immigration matters and DV cases. Your immigration status is generally kept confidential. Search for immigration legal aid specifically.
Data sources: 211 networks, nonprofit registries, government databases, and community-verified listings. Resources are reviewed for accuracy. Learn about our data.