How to Access Free Legal Aid With Public Funds
The right to an attorney that is guaranteed to us as American citizens only pertains to criminal cases where we are accused of a crime. However, if you are facing a private or civil suit and cannot afford legal representation, you can apply for legal aid assistance in order to obtain a free or low cost attorney to handle your case for you.
- If you are charged with a crime, you do not have to apply for assistance through legal aid. Ask the court to appoint you a public defender. If you meet the income guidelines you will be appointed a public defender to defend you free of charge.
- If you need assistance with a civil case, you can request the assistance of legal aid in locating a free or low cost attorney in your area. Look up the nearest legal aid office to you online by using your preferred search engine. Perform a search using the keywords "legal aid office," or "free legal aid." Include the name of the city and state where you are looking for an attorney in your search.
- Look on the websites that your search produces for legal aid hotline phone number for your area. Contact the number listed and let them know that you need to apply for assistance. Provide them with the requested information so that they can properly refer you.
- Once you have located the nearest office to you, you should visit this office in person to apply for legal aid assistance. Bring proof of income as well as your drivers license to your appointment; you will need these documents in order to apply for assistance.
- If you are elderly, disabled or the victim of domestic violence there are specialized programs in some areas that will also assist you in finding a free or low cost attorney. Use your search engine to search for a free or low cost lawyer that handles your specific kind of case.