Key Takeaways

  • 2 legal aid organizations serve Arkansas.
  • Income eligibility: generally 125% of federal poverty level.
  • Covers civil matters: housing, family law, consumer issues, benefits.
  • Does not cover criminal cases — contact the public defender.

Legal Aid Organizations in Arkansas

Legal Aid of Arkansas

Arkansas's primary civil legal aid provider, serving low-income residents with help in housing, family law, consumer, and benefits cases.

Center for Arkansas Legal Services

Provides free legal assistance to low-income Arkansans in civil matters through office-based and outreach services.

Additional Resources

What Legal Aid Covers

  • Housing: Eviction defense, landlord disputes, public housing issues
  • Family law: Divorce, custody, protection orders, child support
  • Consumer: Debt collection, credit issues, utility shutoffs
  • Benefits: SSI/SSDI, SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment
  • Immigration: Some programs handle immigration matters

What Legal Aid Won't Cover

  • Criminal cases: Contact the public defender's office
  • Fee-generating cases: Personal injury, workers' comp (find a contingency-fee lawyer instead)
  • Over income limit: Ask about sliding-scale fees or limited-scope representation

If You Don't Qualify

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I get free legal help in Arkansas?

    Call Legal Aid of Arkansas at 1-800-952-9243 or the Center for Arkansas Legal Services at 1-800-950-5817 to apply for assistance.

  • What types of cases does Arkansas legal aid handle?

    Arkansas legal aid covers civil cases including housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer debt, and elder law. Criminal cases are not covered.

  • Can I get help with an eviction through legal aid in Arkansas?

    Yes. Legal Aid of Arkansas provides eviction defense and landlord-tenant assistance to qualifying low-income tenants.

Sources