Greater Hartford Legal Aid represents people in court, at administrative hearings, and before government agencies and the legislature. We protect the legal rights of those living in poverty and advocate for pragmatic, fair solutions to the problems they face. Resolving individual legal problems case by case is the core of our work, and we represent thousands of people each year. Because we can't represent everyone who needs a lawyer we also provide community legal education to help people advocate for themselves. Our staff works with the community to identify and address broader issues and concerns. Our advocacy informs government decision-makers about how laws affect people with few resources and strives to make government programs provide the help they promise. Our collaborative and flexible approach ensures our services are efficient and meet current needs.

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Persons 60 years of age and older can

call GHLA directly at (860) 541-5003

We represent clients who are low-income, live in the Greater Hartford area, and have a legal problem that we handle. See the "Kinds of Cases We Handle" list below.

Because we receive so many calls, we ask that you call Statewide Legal Services (SLS) first to determine if you qualify for free legal services. Staff at SLS will ask you some questions. They may also give you legal advice over the phone or send you information in the mail. If you have the kind of case GHLA handles, SLS will refer your case to GHLA. GHLA will then review your application and decide if we will take your case.

You can also call GHLA directly at 860-541-5000, Monday through Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Persons living with HIV/AIDS can call directly at (860)541-5027 or the toll free number (888)380-3646 for the AIDS Legal Network. All calls are private and confidential.

Kinds of Cases We Handle

The following list includes most of the kinds of cases we take.

Children: Special Education; School Discipline; Homeless and Residency Issues; Children's Rights to Health Care (HUSKY) and other Services; Section 504; Child Support

Employment: Unemployment Compensation; Discrimination; Criminal Records, Barriers to Work; Family and Medical Leave Act

Disability: Benefits; Housing; Employment

Family: Family Violence Issues, including Restraining Orders, Divorce, Custody

Government benefits: State Cash and Medical Assistance; Food Stamps; Health Care Issues; SSI; Medicaid/Medicare; TFA; SAGA

HIV/AIDS: Discrimination; Confidentiality; Living Wills: Power of Attorney

Housing: Evictions; Landlord-Tenant Disputes; Subsidized Housing

Immigration: Immigration Status Issues for Family Violence Victims

Seniors: Right to Home Care; Nursing Home Issues