Community Legal Services
Free & Low-Cost Legal Aid
Civil legal problems—housing, family court, benefits, immigration, reentry— can spiral quickly. These programs offer intake clinics, hotlines, and self-help materials so you can prepare paperwork and meet critical deadlines.
Intake Tip
Call early in the week and ask if the organization offers online intake. Provide an email address to receive forms or checklist PDFs.
Where to Start
County Legal Aid Societies
Most Florida counties host nonprofit legal aid offices that cover eviction defense, child custody disputes, and victim advocacy. Call early—slots fill quickly.
Statewide Hotlines
Organizations like Florida Rural Legal Services, Bay Area Legal Services, and Legal Services of Greater Miami operate intake lines for civil issues and disaster relief.
Law School Clinics
University clinics often take limited pro bono cases, including expungement, veterans benefits, and immigration relief. Ask for semester deadlines and criteria.
Specialty Legal Aid Networks
Updated 2025Immigration & Asylum
- •Catholic Charities Immigration Legal Services
- •American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Pro Bono Project
- •Kids in Need of Defense (KIND) for minors
Family, Housing, & Consumer
- •Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association
- •Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida
- •Jacksonville Area Legal Aid (evictions, debt collection)
Reentry & Records Relief
- •Project No One Alone – domestic violence survivors
- •Southern Legal Counsel – civil rights and special litigation
- •Florida Justice Center – fines, fees, and driver license restoration
Frequently Asked Questions
Civil Legal AidWho qualifies for free legal aid?
Most programs use income guidelines based on household size, but priority is often given to seniors, veterans, survivors of violence, or tenants facing imminent eviction.
What documents should I collect before calling?
Gather photo ID, court notices, lease agreements, pay stubs, benefit letters, and any correspondence you received from opposing parties or agencies.
Can legal aid help with criminal cases?
Generally no—criminal representation is handled by public defenders. Legal aid focuses on civil matters such as housing, benefits, immigration, and family law.
Is language assistance available?
Many nonprofits provide bilingual staff or phone interpreter services. Mention language needs during intake so they can schedule the right staff member.