The Problem
Even though having a lawyer can be critical to avoiding homelessness, loss of child custody, or removal from the country, legal representation for those who cannot afford it is only guaranteed in criminal matters.
Civil legal services are often beyond the reach of many low- or even moderate-income people who earn too much to qualify for free legal aid, but who cannot afford market rates charged by private attorneys.
In the District of Columbia, this gap in access to justice is all too clear. The overwhelming majority of litigants in Landlord/Tenant Court, Family Court, the Domestic Violence Unit, and other civil courts appear without a lawyer.
What We Do
The DC Affordable Law Firm is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that provides legal services to people whose incomes fall between 200%-400% of the federal poverty level. With supervision from Executive Director Sheldon Krantz, Senior Counsel Kenneth Starling, and ongoing pro bono assistance from DLA Piper and Arent Fox attorneys, the firm's six lawyers, all graduates of the Georgetown Law Center, will provide advice and representation in:
- Housing
- Family Law
- Immigration
- Small Business and Non-Profit
Under our "low bono" model, we are committed to charging only what our clients can afford to pay.
How You Can Help
We need your support to help us provide effective representation to those who need our assistance. The DC Affordable Law Firm will open its doors to clients in December, 2015. Please show your support by making a donation today.