Free Legal Aid in Wisconsin
Free and low-cost legal help available in Wisconsin. 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 Wisconsin.
- 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 Wisconsin
Legal Action of Wisconsin
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of southern and western Wisconsin.
Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee
Serves low-income residents of Milwaukee County with free civil legal services, including a large eviction defense practice.
Wisconsin Judicare
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents of northern Wisconsin, including tribal communities.
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 Wisconsin — many offer free consultations
- Small claims court in Wisconsin — handle smaller disputes yourself
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find legal aid in Wisconsin?
In Milwaukee, call Legal Aid Society at 414-727-5300. In southern/western WI, call Legal Action at 608-256-3304. In northern WI, call Wisconsin Judicare at 1-800-472-1638.
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What does Wisconsin legal aid help with?
Wisconsin legal aid covers housing, family law, domestic violence, public benefits, consumer debt, and Native American legal issues for qualifying low-income residents.
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Does Wisconsin legal aid help with eviction defense in Milwaukee?
Yes. The Legal Aid Society of Milwaukee has a large eviction defense practice and may be able to represent you if you are facing eviction in Milwaukee County.