Navigating legal issues can be daunting. Whether you’re dealing with an injury, employment disputes, criminal accusations, or business ventures, finding the right legal help is crucial. The Texas Lawyer Referral Service (LRIS) is designed to simplify this process, connecting you with qualified attorneys who can address your specific needs. This service acts as a bridge, ensuring Texans can access legal assistance efficiently and effectively.
How the Texas Lawyer Referral Service Works for You
Are you facing a challenging legal situation? Perhaps you’ve been injured in an accident, believe you were unfairly dismissed from your job, are facing criminal charges, or are encountering landlord-tenant disputes. Maybe you’re even starting a new business and need legal guidance. Whatever your legal concern, the Texas Lawyer Referral Service is here to assist.
It’s important to understand that the LRIS is a referral service and not a provider of legal advice. Their expert staff focuses on matching you with a lawyer or relevant resource best suited to your legal requirements and financial situation. Think of them as your initial point of contact to guide you towards the right legal professional.
For residents in specific counties including Bexar, Dallas, Harris, Jefferson, Travis, and Tarrant, the LRIS provides direct assistance. For contact information in these areas, you can visit the Certified Lawyer Referral Services in Texas page.
If you reside outside these counties, you can still access the Texas Lawyer Referral Service by calling their toll-free number: (800) 252-9690. They are available Monday through Friday, CST, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding legal holidays. Spanish language assistance (Se habla Español) is also available.
For online access to a variety of legal resources, including paid, free, or reduced-fee options in your county, visit www.texasbar.com/selfservice.
Need a lawyer referral anytime, day or night? The LRIS offers an online referral service. Keep in mind that this automated system may not perfectly align with your precise needs. If the referral isn’t quite right, don’t hesitate to call during business hours to speak with their helpful staff or explore www.texasbar.com/selfservice for further assistance.
Texas Lawyer Referral Service Area Coverage
The Texas LRIS is a comprehensive service, covering over 246 counties throughout Texas. Each year, they assist over 60,000 individuals in finding appropriate legal help. To ensure they connect you with the most relevant lawyer or resource, they will first ask for the county where you require assistance. If the LRIS doesn’t directly serve your county, they will guide you to a certified lawyer referral program that does. You can also find a list of Certified Lawyer Referral Services in Texas online.
Understanding the Process and Costs
Using the Texas Lawyer Referral Service involves a straightforward process:
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Initial Contact and Information Gathering: When you contact the LRIS, their staff will ask for:
- The county where you need legal help.
- Basic details about your legal issue.
- Your name, zip code, and phone number.
Providing your name, zip code, and phone number is necessary to receive a referral. This information is solely shared with the referred attorney so they know you were connected through the LRIS. Your personal information is not sold, rented, or shared with any other parties.
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Making an Appointment: Once you receive a lawyer referral, it’s your responsibility to contact the attorney and schedule a consultation.
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Low-Cost Initial Consultation: The lawyer referred through the LRIS will provide an initial consultation, lasting up to 30 minutes, for a maximum cost of $20.
It’s important to note that the LRIS does not have participating attorneys who offer free or reduced-fee legal aid directly through this service. If you and the attorney decide to work together beyond the initial consultation, you should anticipate paying reasonable fees, which will be agreed upon between you and the attorney. Ensure you clearly understand the attorney’s fee structure.
For those needing free or low-cost legal assistance, TexasLawHelp.org provides a directory of available resources across Texas counties.
Helpful Tips and Resources
To make the most of your lawyer referral and initial consultation, consider these valuable resources:
Be Prepared and Save Money: Review these quick tips to help you and your lawyer have a productive and cost-effective consultation. Being prepared can save you time and money.
LRIS FAQs: Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Lawyer Referral & Information Service to better understand the service and what to expect.
The Texas Lawyer Referral Service is officially certified as required by the State of Texas under Chapter 952, Occupations Code.
Important Disclaimer: Please be aware that the State Bar LRIS is not liable for any disputes between referred attorneys and clients. The LRIS does not oversee or take responsibility for how an attorney handles a client’s legal case. While the LRIS strives to connect you with competent legal professionals, they do not guarantee an attorney’s ability to handle a specific legal matter. The decision to hire a referred attorney is solely yours, and is subject to the attorney’s agreement to take your case.
Connect with the Texas Lawyer Referral Service today to find the legal help you need.
