Special Education and IEP Advocacy

At NCLS, we are committed to supporting families navigating the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process and other special education services. Our team provides guidance and representation to ensure every child receives the educational support they are entitled to under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504, and more. We work alongside families at every stage, protecting student rights and promoting successful outcomes.

Schedule Call Contact Us

Schedule your call

Loved by our Community

At North Carolina Legal Services we believe that access to the justice system shouldn't be limited by one's income. We offer quality legal services at a price that working families can afford.

- A former attorney left me in a very difficult position with my custody dispute, and North Carolina Legal Services where able to step in, and salvage the situation. Not only did they salvage the situation, but they helped my obtain an outcome that was to my benefit.
  Jonathan Matthews
  Financial Advisor at Merrill Lynch
- Rich Gittings, the owner of the firm, is a brilliant, creative, and caring lawyer who genuinely cares about providing the best services to his clients. I would highly recommend hiring North Carolina Legal Services for any of your legal needs.
  Morgan Brock-Smith
  JD at United States District Court
- Rich is not only a knowledgeable and outstanding lawyer, he is genuinely an amazing person. The very structure of his business was born out of the want to help people and he truly succeeds at his mission. As someone who not only uses North Carolina Legal’s services but also someone who shares a passion to use their skills to help others and better the community they live in, I can attest not only to his legal acumen, but his character as a person, both of which are top tier.
  Kyle Beausoleil
  Financial Analyst of Duke University
- My business partner and I used North Carolina Legal Services to help stand up our business. We loved using them, they gave excellent referrals, walked us through everything we needed to be protected and followed up with us afterwards! I highly recommend reaching out to them for their services!
  Marcus Morrow
  Co-Owner at Chibangas Neighborhood Market
- I utilized NCLS for assistance with my employers contractual matters. Mr. Gittings demonstrated profound expertise and was consistently supportive. His communication was punctual and dependable throughout the entire process. I am genuinely grateful for the presence of such a reputable and cost-effective legal service in North Carolina.
  Kristen Rissell
  Clincal Social Worker of Duke University
- The attorney with whom I spoke demonstrated patience as well as being well-versed in that specialty of the law. I was able to ask and get an answer for each of my questions. . . [W]ow. I did not feel rushed. The attorney provided me with the knowledge and confidence to be successful at court. Words can not adequately express my gratitude. I regret not having previously found North Carolina Legal Services.
  Amy Hahn
  Director at Velocity Industries

Frequently asked
questions

- Why should I hire an attorney?
  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.
- How much do you charge?
  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.
- How do individuals qualify for discounted legal services?
  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.
- What types of legal issues can you help me with?
  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.
- Do you charge a consultation fee?
  Yes, we charge a flat rate of $50 for a half-hour consultation.
- How often will I be updated on the status of my case?
  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.
- How do businesses qualify for discounted legal services?
  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.
- If I hire an attorney, can I still settle without going to court?
  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.
- I am concerned that getting an attorney might make things worse. Is that true?
  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.

Our Services

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.

Family law

Empower your family to move forward confidently

At NCLS, we offer empathetic and result-oriented representation for our clients’ family law concerns. We strive to help our clients move on with their lives feeling confident.

Small Business and Nonprofits

Legal support for small businesses and nonprofits to succeed

We believe that small businesses and nonprofits give our community its distinct and special character. We are committed to helping entrepreneurs, small business owners, and nonprofit leaders with the legal support they need to succeed in a competitive and challenging environment.

Employment Law

Protect your rights in the workplace

At NCLS, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of employees and ensuring fair treatment in the workplace. If you’ve been wronged by your employer, we’re here to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Tenant Rights Law

Expert assistance to protect your home

Navigating legal issues with your landlord can be complicated and stressful. We provide expert legal assistance to ensure that your rights are protected when resolving disputes with your landlord.

Personal Injury

Recover with Confidence

At NCLS, we understand that accidents can turn your life upside down. We’re here to offer compassionate, effective legal representation to help you get the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one was injured due to someone else's mistake, we can help with your case, and you won't pay any fees unless we win.

Probate and Estate Planning

Estate planning and administration services

At NCLS, we are dedicated to helping you plan for the future and manage the affairs of your loved ones after they pass. We provide comprehensive legal services to ensure your wishes are respected and your family is taken care of.