Key Takeaways

  • 2 legal aid organizations serve Oregon.
  • 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 Oregon

Legal Aid Services of Oregon

Oregon's primary legal aid provider, offering free civil legal services to low-income Oregonians through offices across the state.

Oregon Law Center

Provides systemic legal advocacy and direct services for low-income Oregonians, focusing on impact litigation and policy work.

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 apply for legal aid in Oregon?

    Call Legal Aid Services of Oregon at 503-224-4086 or apply online. They have offices in Portland, Salem, Eugene, Medford, and other locations.

  • What types of cases does Oregon legal aid handle?

    Oregon legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, farmworker rights, and Native American law for qualifying residents.

  • Does Oregon legal aid help farmworkers?

    Yes. Legal Aid Services of Oregon has dedicated programs serving farmworkers and agricultural laborers, addressing workplace safety, wage theft, and housing issues.

Sources