Free Legal Aid in California(2026) -- Low-Income & Reentry Services

California Legal Aid Organization

Lawyer Referral & Self-Help

Income Eligibility

Types of Legal Issues Covered

• ✓Housing & eviction defense
• ✓Family law (custody, divorce, protection orders)
• ✓Public benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, SSI)
• ✓Consumer & debt issues
• ✓Expungement & record clearing
• ✓Employment disputes
• ✓Immigration (limited)

Notable Legal Aid Organizations

Law School Clinics

Pro Bono Programs

How to Apply for Legal Aid

1. 1

   Contact Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles

   Call 1-800-399-4529 or apply online at their website. You can also visit a local office in person.

2. 2

   Complete intake screening

   Staff will verify your income, residency, and case type. Have proof of income, identification, and relevant documents ready.

3. 3

   Case assignment

   If eligible, you will be assigned an attorney or referred to a volunteer lawyers program, law school clinic, or other appropriate resource.

4. 4

   Receive legal help

   Services may include legal advice, document preparation, negotiation, or full representation depending on the case type and available resources.

Related California Guides

• California expungement guide
• Find an expungement lawyer
• Find a criminal defense lawyer
• Probation violation lawyer
• DUI lawyer guide
• Voting rights in California
• Rights after a felony

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get free legal help in California?

Contact Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles at 1-800-399-4529 or apply online at their website. You can also visit LawHelp.org/california for a directory of free legal resources, or call the State Bar of California Lawyer Referral Service at 1-866-442-2529 for a lawyer referral.

What is the income limit for free legal aid in California?

Most legal aid programs in California require income at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Level (about $19,088/year for a single person in 2026). Some programs accept higher incomes for certain case types like domestic violence, veterans' issues, or disaster relief.

Can I get free help with expungement in California?

Yes. Public Defender Clean Slate Programs (various counties) provides free expungement assistance for eligible low-income individuals. Contact them or check LawHelp.org for expungement clinics and resources in your area.

Does California have a public defender I can use?

If you are charged with a crime and cannot afford an attorney, you have a constitutional right to a public defender. California uses a county-based public defender system, with most counties having a dedicated Public Defender office. The LA and SF public defender offices are among the largest in the nation. Contact the court clerk in your jurisdiction to request a public defender. Note: public defenders handle criminal cases only, not civil matters.