Central Virginia Legal Aid Society - Charlottesville Office

Contact Information

Name: Central Virginia Legal Aid Society - Charlottesville Office
Address: 1000 Preston Avenue, Charlottesville, VA - 22903
Phone: (434) 296-8851
Fax:

Service Information

Central Virginia Legal Aid Society (CVLAS) provides free civil (non-criminal) legal assistance to low income people. CVLAS provides legal advice in most areas of civil law and provides legal representation in many areas of civil law. CVLAS does not handle every request for assistance, but never charges a fee for its services. CVLAS does not handle criminal, traffic, personal injury, malpractice, property damage or cases where a private a lawyer could obtain a fee from the other side or from recovery.


Generally, households must have gross income below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. Households with income up to 200% of the federal poverty may be accepted in certain situations. Households also must have low resources. The elderly (60 or older) may receive legal advice without regard to their finances. Applicants for service also must meet resource requirements and citizenship requirements.


Regular telephone intake is 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. or emergency cases, domestic violence cases, and cases for clients 60 years of age or older, telephone intake is Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.


Mission Statement: Founded in 1971, CVLAS’ mission is the zealous legal representation without charge to low income or elderly clients in civil cases and to help the low income and elderly community through preventive community legal education.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is legal aid?

Legal aid is free or low-cost legal advice and assistance given to those who cannot afford the services of an attorney.

2. Who is eligible for legal aid?

The eligibility requirements for legal aid vary depending on the country or state, but generally, those who have limited income and cannot afford the services of a lawyer are eligible for legal aid.

3. How can I apply for legal aid?

To apply for legal aid, you can either visit your local legal aid office or access their website to fill out an application form. You will be required to provide information on your income and assets, as well as the legal issue you need assistance with.

4. What types of legal issues are covered by legal aid?

Legal aid covers a wide range of legal issues, including family law, criminal law, employment law, housing, consumer law, and immigration law.

5. Can I choose my lawyer with legal aid?

In some cases, you may be able to choose your lawyer with legal aid. However, in most cases, the lawyer assigned to you by legal aid will depend on their availability and expertise in the area of law your case involves.

6. How much does legal aid cost?

Legal aid is either free or offered at a reduced cost, depending on your income and assets.

7. What documents do I need to provide for legal aid?

When applying for legal aid, you will need to provide proof of your income and assets, such as bank statements, tax returns, and proof of benefits.

8. Is legal aid available for international cases?

Legal aid is only available for cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the country or state offering legal aid services.

9. Can I appeal a decision made by legal aid?

If you are not satisfied with the decision made by legal aid, you may have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve filling out an appeal form or attending a hearing.

10. How can I find a legal aid office in my area?

You can find a legal aid office in your area by searching online or contacting your local bar association.