Does the government give you a free lawyer in immigration court?
No: federal law gives people in removal proceedings the right to be represented "at no expense to the Government", so you can have a lawyer or accredited representative, but you have to find one yourself.
That is why free help matters so much, and why the immigration court system publishes its own list of people who offer it.
What is the List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers?
- It is published by the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR), the part of the Department of Justice that runs the immigration courts.
- It lists nonprofit organizations, pro bono referral services and attorneys who provide free (pro bono) legal services.
- Providers on it commit to at least 50 hours a year of pro bono work before the immigration court where they are listed, so look under the court that has your case.
- It is updated four times a year: January, April, July and October.
- EOIR does not endorse anyone on the list, and being listed does not mean a provider can take your case. Call several.
Where else can you look?
- The DOJ Recognition & Accreditation roster: nonprofits allowed to give immigration legal help, often at low cost, through accredited representatives. Our guide on DOJ-accredited representatives explains how to check one.
- Legal aid organizations and immigrant service centers in this directory, under "Free & low-cost legal aid" and "Immigration help & accredited representatives" on your city's page.
- Before you pay anyone, EOIR also publishes a list of attorneys and representatives who are currently not allowed to practice immigration law. Check the name there too.
What should you have ready when you call?
- Your A-Number (the 8 or 9 digit number on your immigration papers) and the city of your immigration court.
- The date of your next hearing, if you have one.
- Copies of any notices you have received.
- Do not sign anything you don't understand, and ask for a copy of everything you sign.
Where does Advocasí fit?
Advocasí is not a law firm, does not give legal advice and does not represent anyone in court. A case in immigration court needs a licensed attorney or a DOJ-accredited representative, and this guide exists to help you find one.
Common questions
- Is there a free lawyer for immigration court?
- The government does not provide one, but EOIR publishes a quarterly List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers, organized by immigration court, with nonprofits and attorneys who offer free help.
- Does being on the list mean they will take my case?
- No. EOIR does not endorse the providers and is not part of their decisions about whom to represent. Call more than one.
Official sources
- EOIR: List of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers (justice.gov)
- EOIR: Find legal representation (justice.gov)
- 8 U.S.C. § 1362, right to counsel (Cornell LII)
- EOIR: Recognition & Accreditation roster (justice.gov)
Checked 2026-10-11. Rules and numbers can change; confirm with the official source.