If you are considering bankruptcy in Connecticut but cannot afford an attorney, free help is available. The organizations below provide legal assistance at no cost to qualifying residents. You can also visit lawhelp.org/CT for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in Connecticut.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/CT to find the legal aid office nearest you in Connecticut. You can also call your local bankruptcy court (listed below) for information about self-help resources and pro se filing assistance.
Legal Aid Organizations
Statewide Legal Services of Connecticut
Statewide hotline and legal assistance for low-income residents.
Connecticut Legal Services
Free legal services in eastern and western Connecticut.
New Haven Legal Assistance
Free legal help for New Haven-area residents.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
Yale Law School Clinics
Multiple legal clinics including consumer rights.
UConn School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics serving Hartford-area residents.
Bar Association Pro Bono
Connecticut Bar Association Pro Bono Network
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in Connecticut
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving Connecticut. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Connecticut
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
Credit Counseling
Federal law requires two counseling sessions for bankruptcy filers: credit counseling before filing, and debtor education before discharge. Visit the U.S. Trustee's list of approved agencies to find providers approved for Connecticut. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/CT -- Find free legal help in Connecticut
- NACBA Find an Attorney -- Locate consumer bankruptcy attorneys (some offer free consultations)
- Browse all states -- Back to the full state directory
- 1328(f) Discharge Screener -- Free tool to check if you are eligible for a bankruptcy discharge