Free Legal Aid in Illinois
Free and low-cost legal help available in Illinois. 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 Illinois.
- 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 Illinois
Legal Aid Chicago
The largest provider of free civil legal services in the Chicago area, serving low-income residents of Cook County.
Prairie State Legal Services
Provides free legal services to low-income residents in 36 counties across northern and central Illinois.
Land of Lincoln Legal Aid
Serves low-income residents of central and southern Illinois with free civil legal 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
- Find a lawyer in Illinois — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Illinois — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find legal aid in Illinois?
In Chicago/Cook County, contact Legal Aid Chicago at 312-341-1070. For northern/central Illinois, call Prairie State Legal Services. For central/southern Illinois, contact Land of Lincoln Legal Aid.
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What cases does Illinois legal aid handle?
Illinois legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer debt, immigration, and elder law for qualifying low-income residents.
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Can I get immigration legal help through Illinois legal aid?
Yes. Several Illinois legal aid organizations provide immigration legal services, particularly in the Chicago area, including help with naturalization, DACA, asylum, and family immigration.