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.

• Business Law Advice Clinic for Nonprofits

  Local nonprofits can receive free business law advice from volunteer attorneys on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in downtown Tampa. To find out if your organization is eligible and to schedule an intake appointment, apply online at www.bals.org/special-programs/judge-don-castor-community-law-center. The Clinic is sponsored by the Judge Don Castor Community Law Center, a project of the Bay Area Legal Services Volunteer Lawyers Program. Volunteer attorneys should register online at bals.org/pro-bono-registration.

• 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.