In 2022, the Legal Services Corporation reported that 92% of substantial civil legal problems faced by low-income Americans received inadequate or no legal help. Market-rate legal fees are expensive and often unaffordable for working individuals and families. Community organizations do offer free legal assistance, but many people earn too much to qualify and still cannot afford the high cost of hiring a private attorney. To bridge this gap, North Carolina Legal Services offers income-based fee arrangements for individual matters and discounted rates for small businesses and nonprofits.
Clear, predictable pricing.
Traditional firms in North Carolina charge an average of $320 per hour for individual and family cases, and about $360 per hour for businesses. Consultations often cost up to $200 for a 60–90 minute meeting that includes legal research and planning.
North Carolina Legal Services offers individuals and families up to a 50% discount for legal services and representation, depending on income and household size.
We also offer a 50% discount on the $360/hour market rate to qualifying small businesses and 501(c)(3) nonprofits. At $180/hour, we're able to support the mission-driven organizations that strengthen our communities.
Income-based sliding scale rates
$160 /hr
Client households at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level receive a 50% discount off the $320/hour market average.
$215 /hr
Client households between 250% and 350% of the Federal Poverty Level receive a 33% discount off the $320/hour market average.
$240 /hr
Client households between 350% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level receive a 25% discount off the $320/hour market average.
$320 /hr
Client households above 400% of the Federal Poverty Level pay the standard market rate.
Discounted rates for organizations
$180 /hr
Qualifying small businesses and nonprofits receive a 50% discount off the $360/hour market rate.
$360 /hr
Businesses that do not qualify as small businesses under the SBA definition pay the market rate.
Estimate your hourly rate using the imported Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
Enter income to see your specific rate
If your income falls below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level for your family size, you qualify for a 50% discount. Those with incomes between 250% and 350% receive a 33% discount, while individuals and families earning between 350% and 400% are eligible for a 25% discount. We understand that everyones situation is unique, and our goal is to ensure that you have access to the legal representation you deserve, regardless of your financial situation.
| 1 | $39,900 | $55,860 | $63,840 |
| 2 | $54,100 | $75,740 | $86,560 |
| 3 | $68,300 | $95,620 | $109,280 |
| 4 | $82,500 | $115,500 | $132,000 |
| 5 | $96,700 | $135,380 | $154,720 |
| 6 | $110,900 | $155,260 | $177,440 |
| 7 | $125,100 | $175,140 | $200,160 |
| 8 | $139,300 | $195,020 | $222,880 |
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.
