In 2022, the Legal Services Corporation reported that 92% of substantial civil legal problems faced by low-income Americans received inadequate or no legal help. Market-rate legal fees are expensive and often unaffordable for working individuals and families. Community organizations do offer free legal assistance, but many people earn too much to qualify and still cannot afford the high cost of hiring a private attorney. To bridge this gap, North Carolina Legal Services offers income-based fee arrangements for individual matters and discounted rates for small businesses and nonprofits.
Clear, predictable pricing.
Traditional firms in North Carolina charge an average of $320 per hour for individual and family cases, and about $360 per hour for businesses. Consultations often cost up to $200 for a 60–90 minute meeting that includes legal research and planning.
North Carolina Legal Services offers individuals and families up to a 50% discount for legal services and representation, depending on income and household size.
We also offer a 50% discount on the $360/hour market rate to qualifying small businesses and 501(c)(3) nonprofits. At $180/hour, we're able to support the mission-driven organizations that strengthen our communities.
Income-based sliding scale rates
$160 /hr
Client households at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level receive a 50% discount off the $320/hour market average.
$215 /hr
Client households between 250% and 350% of the Federal Poverty Level receive a 33% discount off the $320/hour market average.
$240 /hr
Client households between 350% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level receive a 25% discount off the $320/hour market average.
$320 /hr
Client households above 400% of the Federal Poverty Level pay the standard market rate.
Discounted rates for organizations
$180 /hr
Qualifying small businesses and nonprofits receive a 50% discount off the $360/hour market rate.
$360 /hr
Businesses that do not qualify as small businesses under the SBA definition pay the market rate.
Estimate your hourly rate using the imported Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
Enter income to see your specific rate
If your income falls below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level for your family size, you qualify for a 50% discount. Those with incomes between 250% and 350% receive a 33% discount, while individuals and families earning between 350% and 400% are eligible for a 25% discount. We understand that everyones situation is unique, and our goal is to ensure that you have access to the legal representation you deserve, regardless of your financial situation.
| 1 | $39,900 | $55,860 | $63,840 |
| 2 | $54,100 | $75,740 | $86,560 |
| 3 | $68,300 | $95,620 | $109,280 |
| 4 | $82,500 | $115,500 | $132,000 |
| 5 | $96,700 | $135,380 | $154,720 |
| 6 | $110,900 | $155,260 | $177,440 |
| 7 | $125,100 | $175,140 | $200,160 |
| 8 | $139,300 | $195,020 | $222,880 |
At North Carolina Legal Services, we understand that hiring an attorney can be costly. That's why we aim to provide affordable legal services when you need them. By hiring an attorney, you can have peace of mind and be in a better position to reach your goals.
North Carolina Legal Services is a non-profit law firm that focuses on providing affordable legal services to the the North Carolina Community. We base our prices on the income of our clients, offering discounted rates to qualifying individuals and small businesses.
Discounts are based on current household income, as verified by a recent pay stub, W-2, 1099, previous year's tax return, or other valid government documentation.
At North Carolina Legal Services we have attorneys who cover a variety of practice areas. If you have a civil legal issue, reach out and we will do everything that we can to help you resolve it quickly and affordably.
Yes, our consultation fee is $80 for a half-hour or $160 for a full hour.
We believe that communication is key to maintaining peace of mind during complicated and difficult legal proceedings. Because of this, we will update you every time there is a substantive change in the status of your proceeding. If there have been no changes, we will inform you as to that every two weeks.
North Carolina Legal Services uses the Small Business Administration's definition of 'Small Businesses,' which is determined by industry, annual revenue, or number of employees. Non-profit organizations are always offered discounted rates.
We often encourage out of court settlement, and will seek to settle if we can achieve a beneficial outcome to you by doing so. It saves time and money, reduces the risk of an unfavorable outcome, and allows parties to tailor the terms of the agreement to meet their specific needs and interests. Settling out of court is often the best option for all parties involved.
Bringing in an attorney often calms things down. Attorneys bring professionalism, expertise, and a neutral perspective to situations. We facilitate effective communication in situations that are emotionally charged, help with negotiations, and guide parties to find common ground. We also make sure you understand your rights and potential choices — our goal is resolution without conflict. Most importantly, we ensure all legal procedures are followed properly, preventing any mistakes or delays in your case and maximizing your chance of success.
Explore a wide range of legal services provided by North Carolina Legal Services. Our dedicated team offers expert assistance in Family Law, Small Business Legal Support, Employment Law, Tenant Rights Law, and Probate & Estate Planning. Find the legal support you need to protect your rights and secure your future.
Empower your family to move forward confidently
Legal support for small businesses and nonprofits to succeed
Protect your rights in the workplace
Expert assistance to protect your home
Estate planning and administration services
Supporting families and communities
