Profile
Free Legal Aid for Bankruptcy and Debt
The Debtor Assistance Project (DAP) is a critical pro bono legal program operating within the United States Bankruptcy Court for the District of Maryland. Established to bridge the gap in access to justice, this initiative is a collaborative partnership between the court and the Maryland legal community. The project provides a lifeline for individuals facing severe financial distress who cannot afford to hire a bankruptcy lawyer. Through this program, volunteer attorneys donate their time to provide free, one-on-one consultations to pro se debtors-individuals representing themselves in court-helping them navigate the often confusing and intimidating bankruptcy process.
- Legal Consultations: Free half-hour meetings with experienced bankruptcy attorneys to answer questions, review documents, and assess case viability.
- Foreclosure Prevention: Guidance on how filing for bankruptcy might stop or delay foreclosure proceedings, helping families keep their homes.
- Chapter 7 and 13 Advice: Explanations of the differences between liquidation and repayment plans, ensuring debtors understand their rights and obligations.
- Pro Se Assistance: Specific support for those filing without counsel, reviewing their forms for completeness and accuracy to prevent case dismissal.
Located at the Federal Courthouse
The Debtor Assistance Project is headquartered at the Garmatz Federal Courthouse at 101 W Lombard St, in downtown Baltimore’s Inner Harbor area. Public Transit: The location is a major transit hub. The Charles Center Metro Station is just two blocks away. The Pratt Street Light Rail stop is within walking distance, and numerous CityLink bus lines (Navy, Yellow, Brown) stop directly on Lombard and Pratt Streets. Parking: While the courthouse does not provide public parking, there are several commercial garages nearby, including the Lombard Street Garage and Gallery Garage.
Community Partnership
The DAP is supported by organizations like the Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service and the Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland. It stands as a testament to the legal profession’s commitment to public service. If you are overwhelmed by debt and looking to find a lawyer for free advice, the Debtor Assistance Project offers a trusted and accessible starting point for your financial fresh start.
Specializing In
Bankruptcy Assistance, Pro Bono Legal Aid, Foreclosure Defense, Debt Relief
Address & Location
Located in the bustling Downtown district of Baltimore, situated immediately adjacent to Hopkins Plaza and just north of the Inner Harbor.
Building Location
This is the Edward A. Garmatz United States District Courthouse, a multi-story federal judicial building, conveniently located across the street from Hopkins Plaza.
Suite Access
Enter through the main security checkpoint of the Edward A. Garmatz United States District Courthouse on Lombard Street. Take the passenger elevators up to the 8th floor to find the U.S. Bankruptcy Court Clerk’s Office in Suite 8530.
Parking Details
Paid public parking is available in the underground garage on-site, with additional multi-story parking structures and street parking options located in the surrounding area.
Public Transit
Served by Maryland Transit Administration Route Light RailLink (Southbound); nearest stop is at Convention Center.
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