Free Legal Aid in Virginia
Free and low-cost legal help available in Virginia. 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 Virginia.
- 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 Virginia
Legal Aid Justice Center
Provides free civil legal services and systemic advocacy for low-income Virginians in central and western Virginia.
Legal Services of Northern Virginia
Serves low-income residents of northern Virginia with free civil legal services in housing, family law, and immigration.
Central Virginia Legal Aid Society
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of the Richmond area and central Virginia.
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 Virginia — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Virginia — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find legal aid in Virginia?
In northern VA, call Legal Services of Northern Virginia at 703-778-6800. In Richmond, call CVLAS at 804-648-1012. Visit Virginia LawHelp for other regions.
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What types of cases does Virginia legal aid handle?
Virginia legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, immigration, and elder law for qualifying low-income residents.
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Does Virginia legal aid help immigrants?
Yes. Several Virginia legal aid organizations provide immigration legal services, including Legal Services of Northern Virginia which has a dedicated immigration practice.