Are you seeking legal advice but concerned about the costs? The King County Bar Association (KCBA) Pro Bono Services is dedicated to ensuring that low-income residents of King County have access to justice. Through a network of over 1400 volunteer attorneys, paralegals, law students, and community members, KCBA provides free legal assistance across a range of civil legal issues. KCBA is committed to providing services to all eligible individuals, without discrimination based on disability, race, creed, color, sex, religion, national/ethnic origin, age, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected class.
General Legal Advice through Neighborhood Legal Clinics
If you need initial legal guidance, the Neighborhood Legal Clinics (NLC) offer a fantastic resource. Across 34 locations in King County, you can access FREE 30-minute consultations with experienced attorneys. These clinics are strategically located to be accessible throughout the county and even include specialized locations focusing on specific areas like debt, bankruptcy, and family law. During your consultation, an attorney will help you understand if you have a legal issue, discuss potential options, and provide referrals to appropriate resources if further assistance is needed. It’s important to note that while NLC attorneys provide valuable advice, they do not represent clients in court. The NLC is designed for limited legal service and is not a substitute for ongoing legal representation.
Free Consultations for Debt and Bankruptcy Matters
Facing overwhelming debt or considering bankruptcy can be stressful. The Neighborhood Legal Clinics extend their free 30-minute consultation service to those dealing with debt and bankruptcy issues. Connect with an attorney at one of the 34 locations in King County to discuss your situation and understand your legal options in these complex financial matters.
Family Law Legal Advice and Free Consultation Options
Navigating family law issues can be emotionally and legally challenging. KCBA Pro Bono Services offers several avenues for free legal advice and consultations in family law:
- Domestic Violence Legal Advocacy Project (DV LEAD): For survivors of domestic violence in King County with low income, DV LEAD provides assistance with domestic violence protection orders and family law proceedings.
- Kinship Care Solutions Project: Relatives and other caregivers in King County seeking minor guardianship of a child can receive free legal advice and representation through this project.
- Legal Advice and Referral for Kinship Care (LAARK): If you are a kinship caregiver in Washington state needing legal advice regarding a child in your care, LAARK offers phone-based legal advice. Please note LAARK does not provide court representation.
- Neighborhood Legal Clinics: For general family law matters, the Neighborhood Legal Clinics also offer free 30-minute consultations with family law attorneys as part of their broader services.
- Self Help-Plus Program: For individuals handling non-contested marriage dissolutions (agreed divorces), parenting plans, and child support in non-contested cases, the Self Help-Plus Program offers assistance.
Housing Legal Assistance for Tenants
If you are a low-income tenant in King County facing eviction, the Housing Justice Project can provide crucial free legal help. Understanding your rights and navigating eviction proceedings is essential, and this project aims to ensure you have legal support.
Vacating Criminal Records for a Fresh Start
The Records Project offers a vital service for individuals in King County seeking to vacate eligible criminal convictions. For those at or below 200% of the federal poverty line, this free legal service can remove convictions from public background checks, significantly improving opportunities for employment and housing. Reducing barriers created by past convictions is the core mission of The Records Project.
Explore Additional Community Resources
For further assistance and information, KCBA also provides a Community Resources Page linking to various support services that may be beneficial.
If you are looking for a “Lawyer Near Me Free Consultation” in King County, the King County Bar Association Pro Bono Services offers numerous pathways to access the legal advice you need. Explore these resources to find the right assistance for your situation.
