If you are considering bankruptcy in Missouri 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/MO for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in Missouri.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/MO to find the legal aid office nearest you in Missouri. 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 Western Missouri
Free legal services for western Missouri including Kansas City. Handles bankruptcy, consumer debt, and foreclosure.
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
Free legal services for the St. Louis area and eastern Missouri.
Legal Services of Southern Missouri
Serves southern Missouri including Springfield.
Mid-Missouri Legal Services
Serves mid-Missouri including Columbia and Jefferson City.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
UMKC School of Law Legal Clinic
Legal clinics in Kansas City.
Washington University School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in St. Louis.
University of Missouri School of Law Legal Clinic
Family law and civil clinics in Columbia.
Bar Association Pro Bono
Missouri Bar Lawyer Referral Service
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in Missouri
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving Missouri. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Missouri
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Missouri
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 Missouri. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/MO -- Find free legal help in Missouri
- 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