Free Legal Aid in South Carolina
Free and low-cost legal help available in South Carolina. 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 South Carolina.
- 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 South Carolina
South Carolina Legal Services
South Carolina's primary legal aid provider, offering free civil legal services to low-income residents across all 46 counties.
South Carolina Appleseed Legal Justice Center
Focuses on systemic advocacy and policy reform to address poverty-related legal issues in South Carolina.
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 South Carolina — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in South Carolina — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I apply for legal aid in South Carolina?
Call South Carolina Legal Services at 1-888-346-5592 or apply online. They serve all 46 counties.
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What does South Carolina legal aid help with?
SC Legal Services handles housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, disaster recovery, and elder law for qualifying low-income residents.
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Can I get help with domestic violence through South Carolina legal aid?
Yes. South Carolina Legal Services has dedicated programs for domestic violence survivors, including help with protective orders, divorce, custody, and safety planning.