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California

California is served by 11 legal aid organizations funded by the Legal Services Corporation. They handle civil matters only — housing, family, public benefits and consumer debt — and generally serve households at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines, which is $19,563 a year for one person and $40,188 for a family of four in 2025. Bay Area Legal Aid, (510) 663-4755; California Indian Legal Services, Inc., (916) 978-0960; California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc., (510) 267-0762; Central California Legal Services, (559) 570-1200, and 7 more.

Free legal aid

Lawyers taking modest-means clients

These attorneys pay an annual fee to be listed. Payment buys placement only, never ranking or referral, and never a position in the free legal aid listings above.

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Common questions

Is legal aid in California really free?

Yes. LSC-funded programs do not charge eligible clients. There is no fee, no retainer and no share of any recovery.

What if I earn too much to qualify for legal aid in California?

Programs generally cut off at $19,563 for one person and $40,188 for a family of four. Above that, look for attorneys offering flat fees or limited-scope representation, and ask the court about waiving filing fees.

Can legal aid in California help with a criminal charge?

No. LSC funds civil matters only. If you are facing criminal charges and cannot afford a lawyer, contact the public defender for your district.