There are several different ways in which an organization can provide help:

• Full Representation - by a lawyer or a legal advocate in court or at a hearing at a government agency.
• Brief Advice - in person or over the telephone.
• Legal Clinic - briefly speak with an attorney about your legal problem in person.
• Pro Se Clinics - learn how you can "help yourself" with a particular legal problem.
• Self-Help Materials - educational materials such as fact sheets and brochures.
• Other - workshops, referrals to private attorneys, and other services.

Note: Not all organizations provide all the services listed. 

Most organizations listed on this website have income guidelines regarding the people or families they can serve.  Income guidelines use a percentage of the federal poverty income amount (example: $12,000/year).  TexasLawHelp.org does not guarantee assistance from an organization even if you meet its income guidelines.

Many legal services groups use the chart below to decide who can receive help.  The chart shows you how much you have to earn (depending on your Household Size) to be at 125% of what the Federal government considers to be the poverty level.  "Household Size" is the total number of people in the household.

125% of Poverty

For each additional person in the household, please add:
$4,250(annual) $354 (monthly) $82 (weekly)

Organizations that provide legal assistance to crime victims can provide services to persons who have income up to 187.5% of the  federal poverty level.  The chart below shows you how much you have to earn (depending on your Household Size) to be at 187.5% of what the Federal government considers to be the poverty level.

187.5% of Poverty

Household Size	Annual Income	Monthly	Weekly
1	$18,375	$1,531	$383
2	$24,750	$2,063	$476
3	$31,125	$2,594	$599
4	$37,500	$3,125	$721
5	$42,875	$3,656	$844
6	$50,250	$4,188	$966
7	$56,625	$4,719	$1,089
8	$63,000	$5,250	$1,212

Some organizations may make exceptions for seniors, people who are HIV positive, or people experiencing domestic violence.

Some organizations also take into account expenses such as childcare, medical bills and debts.

Some organizations only serve special groups such as:

• Children
• Seniors
• People who are HIV positive or related to those with HIV
• People experiencing domestic violence

Be sure to look at the other requirements carefully before contacting an organization.