Learn what questions to ask when choosing a lawyer. And find organizations that give free legal advice and may help you find a free or low-cost attorney.
What to Look for in a Lawyer
Before looking for an attorney, decide what kind you need. Common fields include:
- Criminal law
- Family law
- Landlords and Tenants
- Labor and Employment
You can often talk to a lawyer for free for at least the first conversation. Ask questions about their experience and fees.
Find Free and Low-Cost Legal Help
These programs offer a variety of ways to get legal aid. Some limit their services to people with low incomes.
- Legal Services Corporation (LSC) – Find legal aid in your community for people with low incomes.
- LawHelp.org – Find free legal aid near you and get answers to your legal questions. These services are for people with low to moderate incomes.
- Law Help Interactive – This program helps you fill out legal forms for free, such as those dealing with:
- Uncontested divorce
- Identity theft
- Visitation rights
- Landlord/tenant disputes
- American Bar Association Free Legal Answers – This site lets people with low incomes ask questions online and have a lawyer answer them. They will not answer questions involving crimes.
- Directory of Law School Pro Bono Programs – Many law schools have formal pro bono programs. Search for ones in your state.
Find Legal Resources for Specific Groups
Military and Veterans
- Stateside Legal – Find free legal help for military members, veterans, and their families.
- Legal Help for Veterans – Find free legal clinics and other resources from the Department of Veterans Affairs.
- Armed Forces Legal Assistance – Find nearby military installations with legal assistance offices.
People with Disabilities
- National Disability Rights Network – Locate legal advocacy service providers by state for people with disabilities.
Seniors
- Eldercare Locator – Enter your city and state or zip code to find local offices on aging and legal services.
- Pension Rights Center – Get free legal help for problems with your pension, profit-sharing, or retirement savings plans.