Free Legal Aid in Montana
Free and low-cost legal help available in Montana. 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
- 1 legal aid organizations serve Montana.
- 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 Montana
Montana Legal Services Association
Montana's primary legal aid provider, offering free civil legal services to low-income Montanans including in rural and tribal communities.
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 Montana — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Montana — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get free legal help in Montana?
Call Montana Legal Services Association at 1-800-666-6899 or apply online. They serve all Montana counties including tribal reservations.
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What types of cases does Montana legal aid handle?
MLSA handles housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, and Native American legal matters for qualifying low-income residents.
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Does Montana legal aid serve Native American communities?
Yes. Montana Legal Services Association provides legal help to Native American communities and has experience with tribal law, federal Indian law, and issues affecting reservation residents.