If you are considering bankruptcy in Kentucky 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/KY for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in Kentucky.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/KY to find the legal aid office nearest you in Kentucky. 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 of the Bluegrass
Free legal services for central and northern Kentucky.
Kentucky Legal Aid
Serves western Kentucky with free legal assistance.
Appalachian Research and Defense Fund (AppalReD)
Serves eastern Kentucky.
Legal Aid Society (Louisville)
Free legal services for greater Louisville.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
University of Kentucky College of Law Legal Clinic
Legal clinics in Lexington.
University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in Louisville.
Bar Association Pro Bono
Kentucky Bar Association Pro Bono
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in Kentucky
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving Kentucky. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Kentucky
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Kentucky
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 Kentucky. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/KY -- Find free legal help in Kentucky
- 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