The Connecticut Network for Legal Aid consists of several nonprofit legal services organizations whose shared mission is to improve the lives of Connecticut’s poorest citizens by providing free legal services to low-income individuals. This web site, funded by the Connecticut Bar Foundation and the Legal Services Corporation, seeks to further our goal of equal access to justice by providing information and self-help materials on a variety of legal issues.
The Network: The legal services programs in Connecticut are a group of nonprofit organizations which provide legal assistance in civil matters to low-income persons. Services are free. Eligibility depends upon income, family size, assets and legal issue.
Working Together: The programs work together to advocate for (and with) people who are low income, on a variety of issues. In addition to individual legal advice and representation, the legal services programs help clients, community groups, and providers through free trainings, pamphlets and other information.
How to Get Assistance: Generally, applicants should call Statewide Legal Services first to find out if they qualify for services. Call 800-453-3320 or 860-344-0380 between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, or call between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. The following persons should call the legal services office closest to them:
- Elder applicants, 60 years and older (service map)
- Staff from social service or government agencies
For more information on which legal services program covers your area:
Map of General Legal Services in Connecticut
Map of Elder Law Services in Connecticut
Legal Services Programs in Connecticut
A Guide for Finding Free Legal Assistance in Connecticut
The legal services system includes the following five programs:
Statewide Legal Services
Statewide Legal Services (SLS) is available by phone to clients throughout Connecticut. Generally SLS is the entry point for accessing legal assistance. SLS may provide advice over the phone, mail information, or refer clients to a legal services office or private attorney at no cost to the client. Call 1-800-453-3320 (toll free) 860-344-0380 (central CT).
Connecticut Legal Services
Connecticut Legal Services (CLS) provides legal representation to low-income persons throughout the state, except those living in the greater Hartford or New Haven areas.
Greater Hartford Legal Aid
The Greater Hartford Legal Aid program (GHLA) provides legal representation to low-income persons who live in the greater Hartford area.
New Haven Legal Assistance Association
New Haven Legal Assistance Association, Inc. (LAA) provides legal representation to low-income persons in the greater New Haven and lower Naugatuck Valley areas.
Legal Assistance Resource Center
The Legal Assistance Resource Center of Connecticut (LARCC) coordinates publications, policy advocacy and staff training for the legal services programs. LARCC also sponsors the Connecticut Alliance for Basic Human Needs (CABHN), a statewide advocacy network. CABHN publishes a free monthly newsletter, CABHN Fever, and conducts community outreach and education.