Curious about how Legal Advice Clinics work? See our list of Frequently Asked Questions below for more information about what to expect at a clinic.
Visit the Events page on our website to view the clinic schedule.
The following FAQs are meant to answer common questions for people preparing to attend a Legal Advice Clinic as an applicant looking to receive brief legal advice. Volunteers attending a clinic should review the confirmation email they received from Legal Aid.
Q: What time should I arrive?
A: Please arrive at the posted start time. We will begin checking in people based on order of arrival at the beginning of the check-in hour. (For clinics that require appointments, please arrive by your scheduled appointment time).
Q: What should I bring with me?
A: Bring all of the documents relevant to your legal issue. Reviewing the paperwork helps our team provide the best advice possible!
Q: What is the process for receiving advice at the clinic?
A: First, you'll check in with a Legal Aid staff member. Then, you’ll complete an intake interview. The intake interview gathers information about you and your legal issue, which helps us pair you with an attorney who will provide you with brief advice.
Q: How long can I expect to be at the clinic?
A: Our check-in list remains open for the first hour of the clinic, or until we reach capacity. Serving all checked in applicants can take several hours. Give yourself plenty of time to receive assistance!
Q: What if I need to leave early, or can’t stay the whole time?
A: Notify a staff member if you need to leave.
Q: Who can come with me to the clinic?
A: You are welcome to bring a trusted support person with you. Children are also welcome. Legal Aid does not provide childcare, but Legal Aid staff will work with families to accommodate your needs.
Q: Can I come to the clinic on behalf of another person for legal advice?
A: No, typically the person requesting legal assistance needs to be present at the clinic. There may be some exceptions if you are seeking legal help for someone and you are their legal guardian or have power of attorney.
Q: What if English isn’t my preferred language?
A: Notify our staff upon arrival. Legal Aid will provide an interpreter in your preferred language.
Q: What if I’m not a citizen of the Unites States of America?
A: If you are not a United States citizen, please let a Legal Aid staff member know when you check in; we may still be able to assist you but will need additional documentation or information.
Q: What if I already completed an intake interview with Cleveland Legal Aid?
A: Let our staff know you’ve recently completed an intake when you check in.
Q: What if I have a criminal issue?
A: Legal Aid cannot assist in criminal matters. Legal Aid only provides advice for civil legal issues, such as matters related to housing, consumer rights, health, education, family, employment, and public benefits.
Updated January 5, 2026