Legal Help for Low Income People
- The American Constitution guarantees a defendant's right to an attorney in legal cases which may result in imprisonment. If you do not have the resources to hire your own attorney, you can request counsel when you first appear before a judge. If the judge does decide that you cannot afford legal help, the court will appoint either a private lawyer, whose fees are paid by the country or a member of a public defender program. The American Bar Association says that some public defenders may charge an application fee, but the fee is generally quite small.
- Legal aid officers are located all over the U.S. Legal Aid offices employ staff lawyers who work specifically with low-income clients. Legal aid lawyers tend to specialize in one area of law, such as civil and juvenile rights, immigration, crime, or labor law. Legal aid attorneys do not work for free, but their costs are significantly less than those of a private attorney.
- You may also be able to find pro bono legal programs in your state. Pro bono programs supply volunteer lawyers who take on legal cases for free. Pro bono programs are often part of state or local bar associations. The Legal Aid Society also participates in pro bono programs in some areas.
- Depending on your legal situation, you may be able to get free help from a legal hotline. A legal hotline is a free service where anyone can call in and gain legal advice over the phone. A legal hotline may also be able to refer you to inexpensive legal services. Some legal hotlines will provide legal forms, prepare letters or review documents for you as well.