Free Legal Aid in District of Columbia
Free and low-cost legal help available in District of Columbia. Includes LSC-funded legal aid organizations, pro bono programs, and self-help resources for people who cannot afford an attorney.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- 3 legal aid organizations serve District of Columbia.
- 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 District of Columbia
Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia
The largest general civil legal services provider in DC, assisting low-income residents with housing, family law, public benefits, and consumer issues.
Bread for the City Legal Clinic
Provides free legal services as part of a comprehensive social services organization serving low-income DC residents.
DC Bar Pro Bono Center
Coordinates pro bono legal services and operates clinics connecting DC residents with volunteer attorneys.
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
- Find a lawyer in District of Columbia — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in District of Columbia — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get free legal help in Washington, DC?
Call the Legal Aid Society of DC at 202-628-1161 or visit the DC Bar Pro Bono Center for help finding free legal services.
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What types of cases does DC legal aid handle?
DC legal aid organizations handle housing (including tenant rights and eviction defense), family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, and immigration matters.
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Can DC legal aid help with tenant issues?
Yes. Housing is a major focus for DC legal aid. They help with eviction defense, housing code violations, security deposit disputes, and discrimination complaints.