Free Legal Aid in Tennessee
Free and low-cost legal help available in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee.
- 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 Tennessee
Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of middle Tennessee and the Cumberland Plateau region.
Memphis Area Legal Services
Serves low-income residents of the Memphis area with free civil legal services.
Legal Aid of East Tennessee
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of eastern Tennessee.
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 Tennessee — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Tennessee — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find legal aid in Tennessee?
In Nashville, call Legal Aid Society of Middle TN at 615-244-6610. In Memphis, call MALS at 901-523-8822. In Knoxville/Chattanooga, call LAET at 865-637-0484.
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What does Tennessee legal aid help with?
Tennessee legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer debt, health law, and elder law for qualifying low-income residents.
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Can Tennessee legal aid help with health care access issues?
Yes. Tennessee legal aid organizations help with Medicaid/TennCare issues, medical debt, disability benefits, and other health-related legal problems.