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Pro Bono Lawyers and Attorneys in Maine

Where to ask for pro bono legal services or a free attorney in Maine, including legal aid programs, who qualifies, and other free or low-cost help. We do not recommend or rank lawyers.

Where to ask for a free lawyer or attorney

Pro bono and legal aid programsThe Maine Judicial Branch lists the Volunteer Lawyers Project, (800) 442-4293, vlp.org, among Maine's non-profit civil legal aid providers. The project "connects people in our communities with volunteer lawyers who can provide legal assistance in civil legal matters." To apply, choose the type of case on its "I Need Legal Help" page and complete an intake form. The courts also list Pine Tree Legal Assistance, ptla.org, for low-income people.
Courts page with phone number: https://www.courts.maine.gov/help/legal/legal-aid.html
Who qualifiesThe Maine Judicial Branch lists eligibility for the Volunteer Lawyers Project and Pine Tree Legal Assistance as "Low-income."
Cases coveredThe Volunteer Lawyers Project's chart lists small claims (consumer law) under $10,000; family matters such as parental rights and divorce; protection from abuse orders; workers' rights, employment law and workplace discrimination; general matters such as bankruptcy and benefit appeals; and immigrant family preparedness. It says "we are unable to assist clients with emergency matters." For criminal or child protection cases it directs people to the Maine Public Defense Service, and for eviction or foreclosure to Pine Tree Legal Assistance.

Other free or low-cost help

Free legal aidThe Maine Judicial Branch lists free civil legal aid providers: Pine Tree Legal Assistance (the state's LSC-funded legal aid organization, for low-income people; ptla.org), Volunteer Lawyers Project, (800) 442-4293; Maine Equal Justice Partners, (866) 626-7059; Immigrant Legal Advocacy Project, (800) 497-8505; Legal Services for Maine Elders, (800) 750-5353 (people 60 or older); Disability Rights Maine, (800) 452-1948; and the clinics at Maine Law, (207) 780-4370 or toll-free (877) 780-2522.
LSC grantee list: https://www.lsc.gov/about-lsc/our-grantees
Lawyer referral serviceThe Maine State Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service provides "up to 30 minutes' consult with a qualified, local lawyer for $35"; after that consultation, you and the lawyer agree on a fee or rate for further work.

All legal help in Maine · What is a pro bono lawyer? · Pro bono lawyers in other states

Last verified against official sources: November 4, 2026.

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General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.