If you are considering bankruptcy in District of Columbia 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/DC for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in District of Columbia.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/DC to find the legal aid office nearest you in District of Columbia. You can also call your local bankruptcy court (listed below) for information about self-help resources and pro se filing assistance.
Legal Aid Organizations
Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia
Free civil legal services for low-income DC residents, including consumer protection.
Neighborhood Legal Services Program
Free legal services for DC residents.
Bread for the City Legal Clinic
Walk-in legal clinics for DC residents.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
Georgetown Law Clinics
Multiple clinics including consumer law.
George Washington University Law School Clinics
Legal clinics serving the DC community.
Howard University School of Law Clinics
Community-focused legal clinics.
Bar Association Pro Bono
D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in District of Columbia
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving District of Columbia. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, District of Columbia
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 District of Columbia. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/DC -- Find free legal help in District of Columbia
- 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