Find Free Legal Help
There are free and low-cost legal resources available. Use this page to find help near you or explore national organizations.
Search For Resources Near You
Enter your zip code to find relevant legal aid societies, clinics, and programs in your area.
National Free Legal Resources
These trusted national organizations provide crucial resources, information, and direct connections to local legal aid across the country.
The largest funder of civil legal aid for low-income Americans. Find a local program.
Find free legal aid programs in your community based on your location and issue.
Get free legal advice online from volunteer attorneys if you qualify.
24/7 hotline connecting victims with legal resources and safety planning.
State-by-state legal information for survivors of domestic violence.
Advancing women's rights through litigation, policy, and education.
National network working to end domestic violence with legal advocacy resources.
Advocates for the legal rights of children in child welfare, education, and health.
Champions policies and programs that lift children out of poverty and protect them.
Uses the law to fight senior poverty and secure healthcare and economic security.
Federal service connecting older adults with local legal aid and support services.
Ensures veterans and active-duty personnel receive the benefits they've earned.
Connects service members, veterans, and families with free legal help.
Direct legal services and advocacy for immigrants, refugees, and asylum seekers.
Works for consumer justice and economic security for low-income and disadvantaged Americans.
Federal agency protecting consumers from unfair practices by banks, lenders, and financial companies.
Network of 1,500+ attorneys committed to representing consumers against fraud and abuse.
Report fraud, scams, and deceptive business practices to the federal government.
The nation's largest nonprofit environmental law organization — provides free legal representation.
Pro bono clearinghouse connecting attorneys with communities needing environmental legal help.
Fights pollution, protects natural resources, and advocates for environmental justice.
The largest provider of legally mandated disability advocacy services in the US.
National civil rights law center for people with disabilities.
Law School Clinics
Hundreds of law schools operate free legal clinics staffed by supervised law students. They are excellent resources for cases involving housing, immigration, family law, consumer issues, and more.
Find a law school clinic near you through the ABA directory.When You Can't Afford an Attorney
Navigating the legal system without a lawyer is difficult, but you have options. Here is a practical guide to understanding and finding free legal assistance.
If You Don't Qualify for Free Help
If your income is above the threshold but you still can't afford a traditional retainer, don't give up. Consider these alternatives:
Limited-Scope Representation
Also known as "unbundled services." You hire an attorney to handle only specific parts of your case (like reviewing a document or attending one hearing) while you handle the rest yourself to save money.
Contingency Fees
If you are suing for money (like in personal injury, medical malpractice, or some employment cases), the attorney takes a percentage of your winnings. You pay nothing upfront.
Pro Tip: Check your employer's benefits. Many Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) include free initial legal consultations and discounted hourly rates.
Thinking about going it alone?
Read the data on the risks of self-representation first.