Community Legal Services - Phoenix, AZ

Equal Access to Justice for All

Community Legal Services (CLS) is a non-profit law firm dedicated to providing legal assistance, advice, and representation to low-income individuals and families in Phoenix and the surrounding communities. Established in 1952, CLS operates on the fundamental belief that financial status should not determine one's ability to access the justice system. Located in Downtown Phoenix, the firm serves as a critical lifeline for vulnerable populations, protecting their livelihoods, health, and families through high-quality legal advocacy.

Mission and Services

CLS focuses on civil legal issues that have a profound impact on the basic necessities of life. The firm does not handle criminal cases, traffic tickets, or fee-generating cases like personal injury. Instead, they concentrate on areas where their intervention can prevent homelessness, ensure safety from abuse, and maintain economic stability. Their primary practice areas include:

• Divorce and Family Law Lawyers: A major part of their work involves assisting survivors of domestic violence with Orders of Protection, divorce proceedings, and child custody disputes to ensure their safety and independence.
• Employment and Labor Lawyers: They represent workers in cases involving unpaid wages, wrongful termination, and workplace discrimination, helping to secure fair treatment and compensation.
• Debt Relief Lawyers: The firm assists clients facing consumer fraud, predatory lending, and garnishments, providing defense against unjust debt collection practices.
• Housing Law: CLS provides crucial representation for tenants facing eviction, housing discrimination, and unsafe living conditions, striving to prevent homelessness.
• Tax Lawyers: The Low Income Taxpayer Clinic helps individuals resolve disputes with the IRS.

Who They Serve

Services are primarily available to individuals whose income falls at or below 125% of the federal poverty level. The firm is committed to eliminating poverty-based inequities in the civil justice system. In addition to direct representation, CLS offers self-help clinics and community education programs to empower individuals to understand and assert their rights.

Justice is not a luxury for the rich; it is a right for everyone. We fight every day to ensure that the voices of the underserved are heard in our courts.

Downtown Phoenix Office

The main office is situated at 305 South 2nd Avenue in the historic core of Phoenix. This location is easily accessible by public transportation and is in close proximity to the Maricopa County Superior Court. The building serves as a hub for legal aid, staffed by a dedicated team of attorneys, paralegals, and support staff, as well as volunteer lawyers from the community.

Volunteer Lawyers Program

Recognizing the immense need for legal services, CLS operates a robust Volunteer Lawyers Program (VLP). This initiative connects private attorneys who wish to provide pro bono services with clients in need. Through this program, the legal community in Arizona contributes thousands of hours annually to assist those who cannot afford private counsel.

If you are facing a civil legal problem and cannot afford an attorney, Community Legal Services may be able to help. Contact them to determine your eligibility and apply for assistance. Do not let financial hardship prevent you from seeking the justice and protection you deserve.