If you are not in a position to afford to pay for an attorney, you are not alone. Many people struggle just to make ends meet, so it’s not unusual if legal fees may put a strain on your budget. This article will provide some ideas of resources to help you.
- Criminal Case – Do you qualify for a public defender? If you do not have the means to hire an attorney to represent you in a criminal case, the judge can appoint an attorney to defend you. When you go to court for your first appearance, you can request an attorney. Judges may ask different questions about your income, but in general come with prepared with information on:
Your income
Your debts, including student loans, credit card debts, etc.
Your assets. For example, you may be asked whether you own or rent your home, whether you own or make payments on your car
- Family Law Case – Have you checked into free community resources? For example, if you live in Solano County, the Solano Legal Access Center might be a helpful resource to you.
http://solano.courts.ca.gov/Courts/SolanoLegalAccessCenterSLACandFamilyLawFacilitator.html
The website above is a resource for California forms.
This website also has a repository of self-help information, videos and documents.
- Domestic Violence – Have you looked into a Victim’s Advocate Office in your community? Many communities have teams of professionals dedicated to assisting in protecting you from domestic violence.
For example, the Solano Advocates for Victims of Violence https://www.savvcenter.org/
Another resource for those in the Vacaville area is the Advocate Against Domestic Violence in the African – American Community, http://www.aadvac.org/
- Pro Bono for Other Types of Cases – There are instances where an attorney may assist you without charge. The term for this is “Pro Bono.” It isn’t the norm for an attorney to represent you for free or for a reduced fee, but there are instances where a lawyer may be willing to help you. Use your resources. Ask people in your network if they have a friend who is an attorney. Meet with a lawyer and explain your problem. Don’t expect free services, but you may be able to work out payment plans or other billing options that can make the representation affordable for you.
