If you are considering bankruptcy in West Virginia 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/WV for the most up-to-date directory of free legal services in West Virginia.
Need immediate help?
Start with lawhelp.org/WV to find the legal aid office nearest you in West Virginia. 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 West Virginia
Statewide legal aid for low-income West Virginians.
Mountain State Justice
Consumer protection legal services.
Law School Bankruptcy Clinics
West Virginia University College of Law Clinics
Legal clinics in Morgantown.
Bar Association Pro Bono
West Virginia State Bar Pro Bono
Contact the bar association for pro bono referrals and reduced-fee attorney programs.
Bankruptcy Courts in West Virginia
These are the federal bankruptcy courts serving West Virginia. Many courts offer self-help desks, pro se workshops, and links to local volunteer attorney programs.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Northern District of West Virginia
Visit the court website for self-help resources, forms, local rules, and filing information.
U.S. Bankruptcy Court, Southern District of West Virginia
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 West Virginia. Many agencies offer free or reduced-cost sessions for low-income individuals.
Additional Resources
- LawHelp.org/WV -- Find free legal help in West Virginia
- 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