We believe that access to justice is fundamental to strong, safe communities. Our lawyers, paralegals, and support staff are dedicated to providing free civil legal services to qualified and low-income residents and nonprofits throughout the Tampa Bay area. Last year, we helped and educated more than 17,600 individuals, families, and community groups.

If you need legal assistance, please use this site to learn about our services. Then, take the first step and call us today. If you are interested in volunteering your time or making a donation to help us accomplish our mission, this site is your guide.

At Bay Area Legal Services, we are here for one reason: To help.

• Important notice for SNAP (food stamp) recipients!
  If you currently receive SNAP, because of the government shutdown you will receive your February benefits early, on January 20th. The Department of Children and Families (DCF) will NOT be issuing SNAP again in February. If you want to file a SNAP application, be recertified, or if you need to give DCF paperwork to approve your benefits or keep your SNAP case open, get it to DCF as quickly as possible. For further details, click here. If you have a SNAP problem and you live in BALS’ service area, you may contact us for legal help.

• Free CLE training - Evictions
  On Friday, January 25, 2019, the Community Law Program (CLP) is hosting a free CLE to educate and recruit additional volunteer attorneys to represent low-income tenants facing eviction. The training will take place at St. Petersburg College from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided. In return, the CLP is asking for attorneys attending to commit to handle one landlord-tenant case for - or volunteer 5 hours with - their nonprofit law firm in a 12-month period. To register, click here.

• 20th Anniversary of the National Low Income Taxpayer Clinic Program

  As a proud recipient of funding from the Low Income Taxpayer Clinic (LITC) grant program since 2002, Bay Area Legal Services joins other LITCs from around the country in celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the establishment of the LITC program. Click here to see our video honoring the LITC program. BALS' LITC is one of many clinics nationwide that provides outreach, education, and representation to low-income residents seeking help with tax-related matters. For more info about BALS' LITC, click here.

• Join The Collective

  Socialize with likeminded professionals during a nonprofit networking hour hosted by BALS. A group of socially conscious and public-spirited friends come together over constructive conversation (and maybe a cocktail). At each event, members enjoy a free adult beverage and the happiness that comes with bringing justice in support of civil legal aid. Click here to learn more about The Collective.

• The No Place Like Home project can assist low-income homeowners clear title to their homes

  Many homeowners cannot qualify for much needed homestead exemptions or FEMA assistance due to their inability to prove they are the titled homeowner. The No Place Like Home project can help! For more information in English, click HERE. Para más informacíon en Español, oprima AQUÍ.

• HURRICANE IRMA INFORMATION

  BALS will be maintaining a Hurricane Irma Resources page on our website for people affected by Hurricanes Irma, Harvey and Maria. Please check the page periodically for updates.

• iLawyer

  NEW Pro Bono Project for Attorneys! Provide legal advice and brief services to clients via Skype from the comfort of your own home or office one evening a month from 5pm to 7pm. This project is ideal for attorneys looking for after-hours volunteer opportunities that require no travel and little to no follow up. To volunteer or for more information, please call iLawyer Project Manager Linda Anderson at 813-232-1343, ext. 179.

• Florida Veterans Support Line

  The Crisis Center of Tampa Bay has launched a helpline for veterans living in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Manatee, and Polk counties, who are transitioning to life after the military. Their new Florida Veterans Support Line, 1-844-MYFLVET (693-5838) is a free service for veterans to speak with other veterans about their problems and where they can get support. Click here for an ABC Action News story highlighting the program, and information about what veterans can expect when they call.

• Our Sustaining Law Firm Campaign is going strong!

  Thank you to all of the attorneys and firms who have supported us. Click here to see our Sustaining Law Firms.