Finding affordable legal help can be challenging. If you’re a low-income resident of King County, Washington, you may qualify for free legal services. The King County Bar Association (KCBA) Pro Bono Services department connects those in need with volunteer attorneys, paralegals, and law students. Let’s explore the available resources to help you find the assistance you need.
Where to Find Free Legal Aid in King County
The KCBA offers a range of free legal services, covering various areas of law. These services are available to eligible King County residents based on income and specific program requirements.
General Legal Advice Clinics
KCBA’s Neighborhood Legal Clinics (NLC) offer free 30-minute consultations with an attorney at over 30 locations throughout King County. These clinics provide general legal advice and referrals but do not provide ongoing legal representation. Specific clinics focus on debt, bankruptcy, and family law issues. This is a great starting point to understand your legal options.
Debt and Bankruptcy Assistance
Facing overwhelming debt or considering bankruptcy? The NLC also offers specialized consultations for debt and bankruptcy related issues. Attorneys can help you understand your rights and explore potential solutions.
Free Legal Help for Family Law Matters
Several programs offer free legal services for family law issues in King County:
- Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project (DV LEAD): Provides legal assistance to low-income survivors of domestic violence with protection orders and family law cases.
- Kinship Care Solutions Project: Offers legal advice and representation to relatives and caregivers seeking guardianship of a child.
- Legal Advice and Referral for Kinship Care (LAARK): Provides phone consultations for kinship caregivers in Washington State on child-related legal matters.
- Neighborhood Legal Clinics: Offers general family law consultations for various issues.
- Self-Help-Plus Program: Assists with uncontested divorces, parenting plans, and child support in specific non-contested cases.
Housing Legal Aid to Prevent Eviction
The Housing Justice Project provides free legal assistance to eligible low-income tenants facing eviction in King County. If you’re struggling to maintain your housing, this program can provide crucial support.
Vacating Criminal Records for a Fresh Start
The Records Project offers free legal services to eligible King County residents to vacate certain criminal convictions. This can help remove barriers to employment and housing. Eligibility is based on income and the nature of the conviction.
Find Free Legal Services Near You Today
KCBA’s commitment to providing free legal services demonstrates their dedication to ensuring equal access to justice. If you need legal help and reside in King County, explore the resources mentioned above. Remember to verify your eligibility for each program.
You can find more information and community resources on the KCBA website. Don’t hesitate to reach out and seek the legal help you need.