Free Legal Aid for Immigrants — By State
You have the right to legal representation in immigration court — but unlike criminal cases, the government does not provide a free attorney. Here is how to find free or low-cost help.
National Resources
| Organization | What They Offer | How to Find Them |
|---|---|---|
| Immigration Advocates Network | Free legal aid directory searchable by zip code — lists BIA-accredited organizations | immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory |
| CLINIC | Catholic Legal Immigration Network — accredited immigration legal services nationwide | cliniclegal.org/find-an-office |
| RAICES | Free and low-cost immigration legal services, especially in Texas | raicestexas.org |
| Legal Services Corporation | Federally funded civil legal aid by state — covers immigration and other civil matters | lsc.gov/find-legal-aid |
| NILC | National Immigration Law Center — know your rights resources and referrals | nilc.org |
| ACLU Immigrants Rights | Rights advocacy, legal resources, and referrals | aclu.org/immigrants-rights |
| DOJ Accredited Reps List | Official list of organizations authorized to practice immigration law | justice.gov — search "List of Currently Recognized Organizations" |
How to Find Local Help
The fastest way to find free immigration help near you: go to immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory and search by your zip code or state. Every organization listed is BIA-accredited and authorized to handle immigration cases.
If You Are Detained
If you or a family member is detained by ICE, call the Immigration Detention Hotline: 1-800-696-1421 (free, available in multiple languages). This connects you with legal help for detained individuals.
You can also call the National Immigration Legal Services hotline or contact the ACLU in your state.
Know Your Rights Before You Need Help
Read our Know Your Rights section so you understand your legal protections before any encounter with law enforcement or immigration authorities.