New Jersey
New Jersey is served by 5 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. Central Jersey Legal Services, Inc., (732) 249-7600; Essex-Newark Legal Services Project, Inc., (973) 624-4500; Legal Services of Northwest Jersey, Inc., (908) 231-0840; Northeast New Jersey Legal Services Corporation, (201) 792-6363, and 1 more.
Free legal aid
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Free legal aid
Northeast New Jersey Legal Services Corporation
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Free legal aid
South Jersey Legal Services, Inc.
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Free legal aid
Central Jersey Legal Services, Inc.
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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
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 New Jersey 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.