Unfortunately, there are cases when you can't afford a lawyer to represent you in court or during negotiations. But you don't have to give up. However, in many communities, for example, more than 60 percent of divorce cases filed involve at least one side without a lawyer. And many people find that when they most need a lawyer are exactly the times when they can least afford one during divorce, injury, illness, job loss or the death of a loved one.
But there are some alternatives that can help you to find free or low-cost legal help.
 Federally Funded Programs
There is a national network of legal services offices. They receive federal funds for providing free legal help in civil (not criminal) cases to low-income people. Staff attorneys and sometimes paralegals with experience in certain areas, such as divorce, landlord-tenant problems, subsidized housing, public assistance, Social Security and unemployment usually provide these services.
In this case a legal services lawyer may also be able to point you toward nonlegal help such as temporary housing, domestic violence shelters and food banks. Besides, most legal services offices set an income limit to qualify for their services. Some programs also think over all your assets, regardless of how much money you're making.
Pro Bono Programs
"Pro bono" ("for the good" in Latin) programs are manned by local attorneys who've agreed to provide free legal representation to those who qualify, either because of income or circumstances, such as AIDS, a battering husband, being over 65, etc. And many state, local and county bar associations have it. With such offices you can prove your income level as well as the value of your assets.
Self-Help Clinics
Free self-help clinics are put on by some local and county bar associations. Here volunteer lawyers answer questions and help with forms, what often occurs weekly or monthly. And you have a chance to get to talk with an attorney individually. You also can join to a large group and ask questions within earshot of others.
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