Free Legal Aid in Hawaii
Free and low-cost legal help available in Hawaii. 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
- 2 legal aid organizations serve Hawaii.
- 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 Hawaii
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii
Hawaii's primary legal aid provider, offering free civil legal services to low-income residents across all islands.
Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii
Connects low-income Hawaiians with volunteer attorneys for free legal assistance in civil matters.
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 Hawaii — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Hawaii — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I apply for legal aid in Hawaii?
Call the Legal Aid Society of Hawaii at 808-536-4302 or apply through their website. They serve all islands including neighbor islands.
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What civil legal issues does Hawaii legal aid cover?
Legal Aid Society of Hawaii handles housing, family law, public benefits, consumer issues, immigration, and elder law for qualifying residents.
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Can I get legal aid help on neighbor islands in Hawaii?
Yes. The Legal Aid Society of Hawaii has offices on Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai to serve all Hawaii residents.