How to Apply for Free Civil Legal Help in Polk County
Apply quickly when a notice includes an eviction, benefits, consumer, family, housing, disaster, or court deadline.
Start here
Call Florida Rural Legal Services at 888-582-3410 or apply online. Its Lakeland office can be reached at 863-688-7376, and phone intake is available weekdays in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole.
Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.; Lakeland 863-688-7376
Open phone and online intakeWhat to have ready
- Every notice, court paper, envelope, and deadline
- Lease, benefit decision, bill, contract, or agency record
- Income and household information requested for eligibility
- Case number, other-party names, and a short timeline
Words you can use
“I live in Polk County and need civil legal help with [issue]. The next deadline is [date]. Can you screen the case and name another route if it cannot be accepted?”
Steps in order
- 1
Lead with the exact deadline.
- 2
Do not miss a hearing or appeal while intake is pending.
- 3
Submit complete, readable documents.
- 4
Ask for another legal, court, or agency route if declined.
If the first answer is no or wait
Follow the notice’s instructions to preserve rights while waiting and keep proof of every filing.
Official sources
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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