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Legal Aid Resources
If you cannot afford a private attorney, you have the right to a public defender. The following organizations also provide free or low-cost criminal defense help in the Chicago area.
This is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed criminal defense attorney for advice about your specific situation.
We are not affiliated with these organizations, and details can change. Please confirm hours, services, and eligibility by visiting each organization's website or calling before you go.
Represents eligible defendants in Cook County criminal cases at no cost. To qualify, your income must fall below set guidelines. Contact the public defender at your first court appearance.
Connects residents with licensed Illinois attorneys for a reduced-cost initial consultation. Many criminal defense attorneys participate.
Law student clinic supervised by licensed attorneys handling select criminal defense and post-conviction cases at no cost.
Provides free criminal record expungement and sealing services for Cook County residents. Also handles select misdemeanor defense.
Connects low-income Cook County residents with volunteer attorneys for civil and some criminal matters.
Free legal information, self-help tools, and attorney referrals for low-income Illinois residents facing criminal matters.
Investigates and litigates cases of wrongful conviction. Accepts applications from convicted individuals who assert actual innocence.
Accepts select criminal defense cases involving civil liberties issues, racial disparities in prosecution, and constitutional rights violations.
Many of these nonprofit organizations offer free or low-cost help based on your income. Fees and eligibility vary, so ask each organization directly what they charge.
No. These are independent nonprofit organizations. We are not affiliated with them and do not represent them. We list them as a public resource.
Look at the services and charge types each organization handles, then call ahead. Some focus on expungement, others on misdemeanor defense or post-conviction relief.
Yes. Criminal law is complex and the stakes are high. A licensed criminal defense attorney can advise you about your specific situation, your rights, and your options.