How to Get Legal Aid

There are many situations when someone may find the need of legal aid. Such instances include a criminal charge, automobile accident, divorce, lawsuit or bankruptcy. It can be a frightening time for those who cannot afford to hire a lawyer. If this is your case, there are organizations to help you find legal aid.

1. Check the local phone book or do an online search for lawyer referral services. Some community groups offer answers to basic legal questions. If they cannot answer questions or provide help you need, they may be able to refer attorneys who may do pro bono work, or who will provide a free consultation.


2. Go to the website of the American Bar Association. The “Legal Help” section of the website provides a link to state legal hotlines. A legal hotline allows for a person to talk to a legal aid attorney by phone. This hotline may be able to answer legal questions, review documents, prepare letters and provide callers with relevant legal forms. The hotline may also refer a caller to a local lawyer who may be able to help.


3. Go to your state’s bar association website. Most state bar associations offer a lawyer referral service which consumers can contact a lawyer. 


4. Call your local lawyer referral service. Provide a staff member your name, address, phone number and briefly state your problem. The staff member will give you the name, address and phone number for an attorney that handles that type of problem. Some states have a bar-sponsored charge for an initial consultation. For example, under the Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service, lawyers charge clients $25.00 for an initial consultation. Additional fees can be discussed during this initial consultation. Some attorneys may agree to a payment plan for legal services. If elderly or disabled, the Lawyer Referral Service is able to help find legal aid for free or a reduced cost.