Free Legal Aid in Washington
Free and low-cost legal help available in Washington. 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 Washington.
- 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 Washington
Northwest Justice Project
Washington's primary legal aid provider, offering free civil legal services to low-income residents through offices across the state.
Columbia Legal Services
Focuses on systemic advocacy and impact litigation to address poverty-related legal issues across Washington state.
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 Washington — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Washington — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get free legal help in Washington state?
Call the Northwest Justice Project at 1-888-201-1014 or visit WashingtonLawHelp.org. They serve all Washington counties.
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What does Washington legal aid help with?
Washington legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, immigration, farmworker rights, and Native American law for qualifying residents.
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Does Washington state have a right to counsel for evictions?
Washington state enacted a right to counsel program providing free legal representation to eligible tenants facing eviction. Contact the Northwest Justice Project for details.