If you are struggling with debt but cannot afford a bankruptcy attorney, these Miami-area organizations may be able to help -- for free or at reduced cost.
Legal Services of Greater Miami provides free civil legal assistance to low-income residents of Miami-Dade County. They handle a range of consumer and debt-related matters, including bankruptcy guidance and representation for qualifying individuals.
Coast to Coast Legal Aid provides free legal assistance to low-income residents in the South Florida area. They offer help with a variety of civil legal matters, including debt-related issues and bankruptcy.
The Florida Bar operates a statewide lawyer referral service that can connect you with a bankruptcy attorney in the Miami area. While this is not a free legal aid service, participating attorneys typically offer reduced-fee initial consultations. This is a good option if you do not qualify for legal aid but need help finding an affordable attorney.
Legal Aid of Miami provides free legal representation to low-income individuals and families in Miami-Dade County. Their attorneys and staff handle civil legal matters including consumer debt issues, creditor harassment, and bankruptcy-related cases.
Most legal aid organizations serve people whose household income is at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level. For reference, the 2026 guidelines are approximately:
Each organization sets its own income limits. Even if you are slightly above the threshold, it is worth calling -- some programs make exceptions based on circumstances such as medical emergencies, domestic violence, or sudden job loss.
If you do not qualify for legal aid but cannot afford an attorney, you have the right to file bankruptcy on your own. This is called filing "pro se." It is more common in Chapter 7 cases, which are generally simpler than Chapter 13.
The Pro Se Bankruptcy Guide provides step-by-step instructions for people filing without an attorney.
You can also reduce costs by:
Yes. Several organizations in Miami provide free legal assistance for bankruptcy cases, including Legal Services of Greater Miami and Coast to Coast Legal Aid. Eligibility is generally based on income, typically at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level.
Most legal aid organizations in Miami serve people whose income is at or below 125-200% of the federal poverty level. For a single person in 2026, that is roughly $18,000-$30,000 per year. Family size affects the threshold. Contact the organization directly for specific eligibility requirements.
If your income is too high for legal aid, consider filing pro se (on your own) using resources at prosebankruptcy.org. Some attorneys offer payment plans or flat-fee arrangements. The Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service at (800) 342-8011 can also connect you with attorneys who offer reduced-fee consultations.
Most legal aid organizations will ask for proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefits letters), identification, and a summary of your debts and assets. Bring as much documentation as you can to your first appointment to speed up the process.