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We provide attorneys and other legal services to people in Travis County who can’t afford them in criminal and civil cases. The seven departments, divisions, and nonprofits connected to Community Legal Services work collaboratively to ensure fairness and due process for people facing legal challenges. We are committed to delivering compassionate, high-quality legal services that protect the most vulnerable members of our community.

Explore Community Legal Services

Criminal Divisions

Capital Area Private Defender Service

We partner with local courts to deliver private defense services to eligible clients, complementing public defender resources.  

Office of First Defense

We provide quality legal defense and Counsel at First Appearance (CAFA) to persons magistrated in Travis County.

Public Defenders Office

We represent indigent individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges, offering free, quality criminal defense throughout Travis County.

Civil Divisions

Dispute Resolution Center

We facilitate mediation and conflict resolution services, helping families and community members reach amicable agreements outside of court.

Law Library

We curate and provide access to legal resources, research assistance, and training materials for attorneys, staff, and the public

Office of Parent Representation

We safeguard parents’ rights by providing legal counsel and support during custody, guardianship, and dependency cases. 

Travis County Child Representation

We provide legal representation and advocacy for children involved in child welfare proceedings throughout Travis County courts.

2024 TAX RATE: TRAVIS COUNTY ADOPTED A TAX RATE THAT WILL RAISE MORE TAXES FOR MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS THAN LAST YEAR’S TAX RATE. THE TAX RATE WILL EFFECTIVELY BE RAISED BY 12.7 PERCENT AND WILL RAISE TAXES FOR MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS ON A $100,000 HOME BY APPROXIMATELY $34.51.