Free Legal Aid in West Virginia
Free and low-cost legal help available in West 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
- 1 legal aid organizations serve West 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 West Virginia
Legal Aid of West Virginia
West Virginia's primary legal aid provider, offering free civil legal services to low-income residents in all 55 counties.
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 West Virginia — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in West Virginia — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I apply for legal aid in West Virginia?
Call Legal Aid of West Virginia at 1-866-255-4370 or apply online at lawv.net. They serve all 55 West Virginia counties.
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What types of cases does West Virginia legal aid handle?
Legal Aid of WV handles housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer issues, and elder law for qualifying low-income residents.
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Does West Virginia legal aid help with Appalachian community issues?
Yes. Legal Aid of West Virginia understands the unique legal challenges facing Appalachian communities, including housing conditions, mine-related issues, and access to benefits.