Harriett Buhai Center For Family Law – Los Angeles, CA

Empowering Families Through Legal Aid and Education

The Harriett Buhai Center for Family Law is a cornerstone of justice in Los Angeles, dedicated to protecting victims of domestic violence and improving the well-being of children living in poverty. Founded in 1982 by a coalition of women’s bar associations, the Center has evolved into one of the most respected non-profit family law firms in the state. We provide free, high-quality legal services to low-income individuals who would otherwise navigate the complex family court system alone.

Located in the heart of the Wilshire Center district, our office serves as a safe haven for the community. We believe that access to justice should not be determined by one’s ability to pay. Our staff of experienced attorneys and dedicated volunteers work tirelessly to empower our clients, giving them the tools and representation they need to secure a stable and violence-free future for themselves and their children. If you are struggling to find a lawyer due to financial constraints, the Harriett Buhai Center is here to help.

Vital Legal Services

We focus on critical family law matters that affect the safety and stability of low-income families:

• Domestic Violence Restraining Orders: Helping survivors legally prohibit abusers from contacting or harming them.
• Child Custody and Visitation: assisting parents in establishing orders that serve the best interests of their children.
• Divorce and Separation: Guiding clients through the dissolution process to legally end abusive or broken marriages.
• Parentage (Paternity): Establishing legal fatherhood to secure child support and custody rights.
• Child Support: Ensuring that children receive the financial support they are entitled to under the law.
• Community Education: providing workshops and resources to help individuals understand their rights and the legal process.

A Legacy of Compassion and Service

Named after the pioneering attorney Harriett Buhai, the Center operates with a deep commitment to social justice. We utilize a unique model that combines professional staff supervision with the energy of pro bono volunteers, allowing us to serve hundreds of clients each year. Our services are primarily offered to low-income residents of Los Angeles County who meet specific eligibility guidelines.

We are proud to be a multilingual organization, offering services in English and Spanish to better serve the diverse population of Los Angeles. Our approach is holistic, often connecting clients with other social services to address needs beyond the courtroom, such as housing and counseling. At the Harriett Buhai Center, we don’t just handle cases; we rebuild lives.

How to Get Help

Accessing our services requires an appointment. We encourage those in need of legal assistance to contact our new client line to screen for eligibility. If you qualify, you will be guided through the intake process with care and respect. Please note that due to high demand, we operate strictly by appointment to ensure every client receives the attention they deserve.