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Eligibility Statement

In general, Community Legal Services serves individuals and families living close to or below the federal poverty level, however, services and eligibility may vary depending on the requirements of our different funding sources.  Because our funding sources change, it is best to call and speak with our intake specialists to see if you qualify for help.

In most cases, eligibility is based on household income, size, assets and case type. Case types are limited by guidelines set and approved annually by Community Legal Services’ Board of Directors.

In many cases, if your total household income is at or below 125% of the federal poverty level and you have limited assets, you may be eligible for services.

 However, if you have fixed expenses such as rent, mortgage, child care so you can work, child support payments, etc., you may be eligible even if your income is up to 200% of the federal poverty level; and a few of our grants  allow services to persons with incomes above that level. The appropriate financial eligibility will be determined during our initial intake process. 

 With limited exceptions (such as victims of domestic violence and trafficking), an applicant must be a citizen of the United States or fall within certain categories of eligible immigration statuses (i.e. legal resident status). Potential clients will be asked to confirm information regarding their immigration status.  

 Our legal services are provided at no costs to eligible persons.  However in some cases, clients may incur court costs and fees. CLS encourages clients to apply for the applicable fee waivers and deferrals for these costs.

Access to Justice for All

CLS works to make our services accessible to all. In addition to making our services available to people with disabilities, we also provide translators for all languages.