Site Help

What Is LawHelpNC?

LawHelpNC is a website designed for North Carolinians who want to learn about a legal topic -- some general information about the topic, people's rights and responsibilities to  

Types of help available

There are several different ways in which an organization can provide help:

  • Full Representation - by a lawyer or a legal advocate in court or at a hearing at a government agency.
  • Brief Advice - in person or over the telephone.
  • Legal Clinic - you can briefly talk to an attorney about your legal problem
  • Pro Se Clinics - you are shown how you can help yourself with a particular legal problem
  • Self-Help - educational materials such as factsheets and brochures are available
  • Other - workshops, referrals to private attorneys, and other services.

Note: Not all organizations provide all of the services listed.

Income Guidelines

Some organizations cannot serve people with incomes higher than their guidelines.  Income guidelines areusually based upon a percentage of the federal poverty income amount.  In 2012, the federal poverty level for a family of 4 is $23,050/year.  Many legal services organizations limit incomes to less than twice the federal poverty level.

LawHelp.org/NC does not guarantee assistance from an organization even if you meet its income guidelines.

Can I get help if my income is larger than the guidelines?

Normally, no, but some organizations may make exceptions for seniors, people with mortgage foreclosure problems, or people experiencing domestic violence.  They may also take into account expenses such as childcare, medical bills and debts.

Special Groups

A handful of organizations only cater to special groups such as:

  • Children
  • Seniors
  • People who are HIV positive or related to those with HIV
  • Migrant farmworkers
  • People experiencing domestic violence.

Be sure to look over these requirements carefully before contacting an organization.

Zip code and county

Enter the zip code or county of the person who needs help. It is better to enter the zip code because many groups do not serve all of a certain county. If you search by county, check the full description of each organization for the specific zip codes it serves.

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