Description
This is the Bar Association of San Francisco’s legal intake line that connects callers to private lawyers. Private attorney referrals are usually most applicable for low-income populations when there is no non-profit help available, or for cases where there might be funds recovered to pay an attorney (personal injury, a lawsuit against someone to recover funds for some kind of damage, SSI/SSDI, insurance cases, etc.).
Note that this same line screens clients for help through the Bar Association’s Justice and Diversity Center (pro bono services).
Ways to Contact
Call the Legal Referral and Information Service intake line: 415.989.1616, open Monday through Friday, 9am – 1pm, 1:30-5pm or complete THIS online request form. They also offer an online self-referral option.
Process
During the initial call, Bar Association staff will do an intake to determine what type of help you need.
Within 1-2 days, the staff member will call you back with information about your referral, including the name of the lawyer who has agreed to meet with you, and the date/time/location of your first meeting.
There is no cost for the intake and referral. The first meeting with the private attorney typically costs $35.
Notes
Collect key information in advance if possible: case numbers, names of key people, court dates and deadlines, documents related to the issue, and any questions you have.