Free legal help.
A more just
Los Angeles.
Everyone should be able to use their legal rights. But not everyone can afford a lawyer.
Counsel for Justice is volunteer attorneys helping people assert their rights, resolve their legal problems, and protect their safety, stability, and well-being.
Our Services
Domestic Violence
Helping survivors seek protection from abuse.
At our courthouse self-help clinic, survivors get help preparing restraining order requests and explaining the abuse to the court. Staff and volunteers also explain the court process and help survivors prepare for hearings.
Explore the Domestic Violence Project →
Immigration
Helping people secure legal status and keep families together.
We assist with applications for citizenship, permanent residence, work authorization, and other immigration matters. We also provide representation to qualifying survivors of abuse, trafficking, and other crimes seeking immigration protections.
Explore the Immigration Project →
Veterans
Helping veterans overcome legal barriers to stability.
We help veterans clear eligible records, resolve housing problems, and apply for VA benefits and military discharge upgrades.
Explore the Veterans Project →
Housing
Helping tenants defend their homes.
Through courthouse self-help assistance and attorney representation, we help tenants respond to eviction cases and assert their rights.
Explore the Housing Project →Our Impact in 2025
Our Impact
Legal help is essential community infrastructure. Like schools, healthcare, and safe housing, it helps people build stable lives and strengthens Los Angeles.
6,161
people received legal services.
“It feels great, when you know you’ve got people there fighting for you.”
— Housing client and veteran
For every $1 invested, civil legal aid returns an average of $7. Source: Legal Services Corporation, The Economic Case for Civil Legal Aid (2025)
Domestic Violence
93%
of survivors got a temporary restraining order.
Survivors deserve a fair chance to seek protection. Help with court forms enables them to explain the abuse and ask for the protection they need.
“I feel like it was the best decision I've ever made to go there. They helped me (…) get the restraining order, and now I'm living peacefully.”DVP participant
Immigration
4,135
people received immigration legal help.
An immigration application can shape a family’s future. Legal help enables people to understand their options and take steps toward secure status or reunification with loved ones.
“For so long I lived in fear of being deported. Now, I don’t have to be afraid. I finally feel safe.”Immigration Project client
Veterans
73%
of record-clearing survey respondents reported improved financial stability.
An old record can stand in the way of a new job. Clearing eligible records can expand veterans’ employment opportunities and help them support themselves and their families.
“My experience with the Veterans Project was a lifeline.”Veterans Project client
Housing
312
people fought back against an eviction.
A fair hearing can mean keeping a home. Legal help gives tenants a chance to assert their rights and defend against eviction.
“The landlord wanted to throw me out on the street at 70 years old. They treated me differently when they saw I had an attorney.”Housing client and veteran
What’s New at CFJ
Connect.
Learn.
Make a difference.
Join our community for meaningful events and practical legal training that advance access to justice.
Explore all eventsUpcoming events
Free virtual MCLE training
Interviewing & Working with Domestic Violence Survivors
Practical, trauma-informed strategies for attorneys. Earn 1 hour of California General CLE credit.
View training details
5K fun run / walk
AILA SoCal & LACBA 5K Run for Justice
A morning of movement and community supporting the American Immigration Council and Counsel for Justice. Adults $75; children $35.
View event details
Virtual MCLE training
Denaturalization and Cancellation of Naturalization Certificates
How can I ensure my client is a citizen? Earn 1.5 California CLE hours with Patricia Corrales, Esq. $50; nonprofit staff attend free.
View training detailsMore events are coming soon. Explore the events calendar →
Volunteer with Counsel for Justice
Make a Meaningful Impact
Join a dedicated community of legal professionals committed to justice and equality. Use your skills and passion to empower individuals facing legal challenges by providing crucial support and guidance.
Your pro bono work will directly contribute to a more just Los Angeles.
What Your Volunteer Experience Could Look Like
- Provide direct legal assistance to those in need.
- Participate in impactful legal clinics and workshops.
- Mentor aspiring legal professionals.
- Contribute to vital advocacy efforts.
- Support essential administrative functions of our programs.
Are You Ready to Make a Difference?
Pro Bono
3,373
hours of pro bono service.
Volunteer attorneys are the backbone of our services. Our staff provide the training and supervision that turn donated time into effective legal assistance.
“Even now, helping someone through a confusing, overwhelming moment reminds me why I became a lawyer.”Immigration Project volunteer
Our Mission & Vision
Mission
Our Mission
CFJ promotes access to justice for those in underserved communities seeking to assert their legal rights. By engaging volunteer attorneys to provide direct legal services, we empower individuals with the knowledge and support they need to navigate their legal challenges effectively.
Vision
Our Vision
We envision a Los Angeles where everyone has access to the legal support they need, fostering a community built on equality, fairness, and opportunity for all.
Community Partners
Get Involved
Volunteer attorneys give their time and skill. Donors make the work possible. Join us in working for a more just L.A.