I need an attorney – Where can I find legal help?

At NAMI, we appreciate how difficult it can be to navigate the legal system for those with mental illness. Please know that NAMI Volunteer Specialists are neither legal professionals, nor can we offer legal advice or individual advocacy.

A reliable source for finding legal representation is the American Bar Association, which maintains a “ Find Legal Help" search function. In seeking counsel, you may wish to consider finding a lawyer that has experience representing individuals with mental health conditions. 

If you (or your loved one) do not have the financial resources to hire legal representation — and the case involves a civil matter — the following resources may be of assistance (please keep in mind that legal aid organizations do not provide services for criminal cases):

State Legal Aid Services are government subsidized bureaus or organizations specific to each state whose function is to provide legal services for low-income individuals.  To find local information, search online for “legal aid [state].” For example, “legal aid Maryland.”
LawHelp.org is an organization that provides information and resources for individuals who need low-cost legal help with civil legal cases. Use their law help locator to access information, self-help forms, and a directory of legal aid services in your state.
The website helpwhenyouneedit.org offers a “Legal Assistance” tab in the drop-down menu under the “Select a Category” button. There, you will find a list of organizations that provide low-cost or pro bono legal assistance in your area.  
Legal Services Corporation (LSC) is a Federal resource to help with SSI claims and other legal aid. Search by zip code to locate contact information for legal aid offices in that region (offices all around the U.S.). They promote equal access to justice by providing high quality civil legal assistance to low-income persons. Search by zip code to locate legal aid offices in your region and apply for grants. LSC also conducts compliance reviews and program visits to oversee program quality and compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
211 provides nationwide information on local resources. Dial 2-1-1 from any phone (mobile or landline) or use their website to search for contact information by zip code. 211 can refer callers to appropriate agencies/community organizations that offer pro-bono legal assistance; available in most areas.

If you (or your loved one) need legal help with a criminal matter, you may wish to consult NAMI HelpLine’s Knowledge Article My loved one has been arrested but can’t afford a lawyer. What are the options?

Hours of operation Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST

Call: 800-950-NAMI (6264)

Text: 62640

Webchat: www.nami.org/help

Email: helpline@nami.org