Legal Aid Services in Connecticut

When times are tough, the last thing you want to worry about is getting in a legal battle with someone on a civil, state or federally regulated issue. But if you feel like you've been wronged in the Hartford, Connecticut area, there are several Legal Aid Services that will help you for free, if you qualify. What is the Statewide Legal Services Network (SLS) in Connecticut?

The legal services network in Connecticut is a non-profit organization designed to help low income people obtain legal services. Eligibility depends upon legal issue, income, family size, assets and services are free to those who qualify.

The program offers a working together mentality, and provides legal services, representation and education to individuals, community groups and providers.

Getting the help you need for your legal concerns

If you are not sure where to go to get help, start with the Statewide Legal Services office calling (860) 344-0380 (Central CT), 1-800-453-3320 (toll free), Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. They will help direct you to the appropriate service section.

There is free help for issues related to health care and benefits, elderly care, rent and discrimination, consumer issues, child care and education, disability, employment, and HIV/aids.

For more information about contact information, see the following link http://www.larcc.org/documents/lsbrochure.pdf

Other "free legal services" available in CT include "self-help" guides

The statewide legal services network in Connecticut also offers folks guides to help themselves become educated around the law. Topics range from bankruptcy, immigration, public utilities, and student issues in addition to the others listed above.

Offering your services for Pro-Bono work

The Statewide Legal services network is always looking for support. Attorneys, legal aids, and mentors volunteer their time for pro-bono work, and usually their insurance is covered by the state if they opt to take a case.

If you would like to donate your time helping others understand, negotiate and even represent someone in the court of law, and you have the appropriate experience, you can contact them at:
http://www.slsct.org/pro-bonoHow can you get a pro bono attorney? for more information. According to their website the average case takes about 15 hours, and the state will cover the costs of the required malpractice insurance.

Potential pro bono clients call the Statewide Legal Services The caller is screened for financial eligibility (approximately 125% of the federal poverty level or $24,000 for a family of four). If they qualify, an initial interview will be conducted by the SLS staff and then the client is referred to the Pro Bono Unit.
(SLS) Hotline.

Sources:

http://www.slsct.org/pro-bono/faqs

http://www.slsct.org/pro-bono