Legal Aid Basics

• Legal Aid provides legal assistance to low-income families and individuals across the United States. Each state has its own Legal Aid society, which often includes multiple office locations across the state. Legal Aid provides information on an individual's legal rights, community workshops, quick consultations by phone and legal representation in court. Legal aid offers low-cost services to many individuals and families and may offer free, or pro bono, services to qualified residents.
  
  

Services for Tenants

• Tenants can receive help from Legal Aid for a variety of financial problems and disputes. Typically, tenants seek help from Legal Aid if they are facing an eviction or if their landlord has increased their rent or denied the return of a security deposit. However, Legal Aid can assist with any problem a tenant faces including disputes with a landlord. Some Legal Aid agencies may also offer consultations on lease agreements for potential renters or offer advice on other aspects of renting such as utility costs.
  
  

Eligibility

• Generally, to qualify for a Legal Aid service, a tenant must show a financial need. A tenant may qualify for the low-cost program or the pro bono program depending on his income level. For example, the Legal Aid Services in Georgia can only assist individuals who make equal to or less than $13,613 annually, according to Legal Aid GA. Some Legal Aid agencies may offer limited services to individuals who exceed the income limits but cannot afford the cost of hiring a private lawyer.
  
  

How to Get Help

• Tenants can get a full list of the services offered in their area by contacting Legal Aid in their state, either by phone, by mail or in person. State departments, such as the Department of Children and Family Services or the Department of Social Services may be able to provide information on Legal Aid in their area as well. Most states also have a Fair Housing Authority, which can assist with legal services.