If you are considering bankruptcy in Texas 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/TX for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in Texas.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/TX to find the legal aid office nearest you in Texas. You can also call your local bankruptcy court (listed below) for information about self-help resources and pro se filing assistance.
Legal Aid Organizations
Lone Star Legal Aid
Free legal services in 72 Texas counties including Houston and east Texas.
Texas RioGrande Legal Aid
Serves south and west Texas, including San Antonio and Austin.
Legal Aid of NorthWest Texas
Serves the Dallas-Fort Worth area and north Texas.
Legal Aid Society of San Antonio
Free legal services in San Antonio.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
University of Texas School of Law Clinics
Multiple legal clinics in Austin.
SMU Dedman School of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in Dallas.
University of Houston Law Center Clinics
Legal clinics in Houston.
South Texas College of Law Houston Clinics
Legal clinics in Houston.
Bar Association Pro Bono
State Bar of Texas Legal Hotline
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in Texas
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving Texas. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of Texas
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of Texas
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Eastern District of Texas
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Western District of Texas
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 Texas. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/TX -- Find free legal help in Texas
- 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