Although it is not a state, the District of Columbia is home to approximately 600,000 people. Out of those people, nearly 19 percent live at or under the federal poverty level. Therefore, our nation's capitol has a pressing need for pro bono and community legal services. After all, people who don't have a lot of income risk having their rights disregarded whenever they run into legal trouble.
Luckily, there is plenty of help available for low-income people in the District of Columbia. Low-income and indigent individuals should take full advantage of these programs and services as needed.
Pro Bono Services in the District of Columbia
While many larger states have several major pro bono organizations, DC's compact size and relatively low population allow it to get away with having only one notable pro bono organization. However, that organization - the D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program - manages to assist more than 10,000 people per year. As a result, it reaches out to many of the district's most needy individuals, ensuring that their legal rights are protected. The program is available to low-income individuals who are at risk of losing their homes, jobs or livelihoods due to legal problems.
D.C. Bar Pro Bono Program
1101 K Street NW, Suite 200
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202.737.4700
District of Columbia Community Legal Resources
In addition to the topnotch services offered by the DC Bar Pro Bono Program, there are several first-rate community legal resources available within DC. A few of the most useful examples include:
The Legal Aid Society of the District of Columbia
1331 H Street NW, Suite 350
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: 202.628.1161
Legal Services Corporation
3333 K Street NW
Washington, DC 20007
Phone: 202.295.1500
National Legal Aid & Defender Association
1140 Connecticut Ave. NW, Suite 900
Washington, DC 20036
Phone: 202.452.0620
If you live within the District of Columbia, have a low income and are dealing with legal problems, it is crucial to understand that there are many organizations available to help. Be sure to get in touch with one of them today.



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