If you are considering bankruptcy in Ohio 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/OH for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in Ohio.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/OH to find the legal aid office nearest you in Ohio. 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 Cleveland
Free legal services for low-income residents in northeast Ohio.
Legal Aid Society of Columbus
Free legal services in central Ohio.
Legal Aid of Western Ohio
Serves western Ohio.
Ohio State Legal Services Association
Statewide support for legal aid programs.
Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (Toledo)
Free legal services in northwest Ohio.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
Ohio State University Moritz College of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in Columbus.
Case Western Reserve University School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in Cleveland.
Bar Association Pro Bono
Ohio State Bar Association Pro Bono
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in Ohio
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving Ohio. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Ohio
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Ohio
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 Ohio. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/OH -- Find free legal help in Ohio
- 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