If you are in need of free or low-cost legal assistance, the process of finding a lawyer can feel overwhelming. Perhaps you have never dealt with a legal issue and do not know the qualities that make a great lawyer. Maybe you have never worked with Legal Aid Service and do not know how to qualify for services. Here is a guide that contains the information you need to know for securing the free or low-cost legal help that you need.
Qualifying for Free Legal Aid vs. Low-Cost Legal Aid
Qualifying for free legal services usually depends on your current income and the assets that you have. Not every legal aid organization will use the same calculation to determine whether your income is below their particular threshold amount. You may wish to submit applications at a few different legal aid agencies in your area to see which services are the most affordable.
Some of the organizations that offer legal aid and assistance are court self-help services, the Legal Aid Society, Legal Aid Service, non-profit groups, government organizations, bar associations, dispute resolution programs, and law school programs. Low-cost legal services may also be available if you decide to purchase legal insurance or do not qualify for other forms of free legal aid.
Right to Choose a Lawyer
In most instances, you will not be able to choose the lawyer you work with in a civil or criminal case. If you require a public defender for criminal cases, the court will appoint a lawyer for your case. If you require a lawyer for a civil case, then you will need to take the initiative to seek legal help from a non-profit organization or legal aid service. Non-profit organizations and legal aid service organizations will frequently match you with an attorney. You may have the option of requesting an attorney, but there is no guarantee that you will get to work with this lawyer. While you may not have the opportunity to choose your lawyer, you do have the right to request a change of representation if you feel that you are not receiving appropriate help.
Specific Legal Rights for Legal Issues
If you have been charged with a crime, then you have a federal constitutional right to have a lawyer appointed for your case. However, you may not have this right if your charge does not involve a penalty of jail time. Those who are dealing with civil issues do not have the federal right to a lawyer. Other legal rights, such as a juvenile's right to a lawyer, will likely vary depending on state law.
Legal Rights Varying by State Jurisdictions
States may define the cases in which juveniles have the right to legal representation. They may have the right to a lawyer if they have been charged with a crime or are seeking the termination of parental rights.
Those individuals who have questions about their legal rights should schedule an appointment to speak with a lawyer from a legal aid service organization. An attorney can inform clients of all of their legal rights.
