Affordable Family Law Attorneys in Charleston
When your family is in transition, overwhelmed, or facing conflict, the legal system can feel intimidating. Divorce, custody disputes, domestic violence, and guardianship issues often happen at the most stressful moments in a person’s life. These are moments that call for steady hands, calm guidance, and a legal advocate who sees you as a whole person—not a case number.
At Charleston Legal Access, we believe that wealth should never determine who receives justice. We are South Carolina’s first and only sliding-scale nonprofit law firm, founded in 2016 with a simple but powerful mission: to make high-quality legal representation accessible to the people who need it most. We serve individuals and families who earn too much to qualify for free legal aid but cannot afford a private attorney—exactly the people most likely to fall through the gaps of our justice system.
Our work is grounded in a trauma-informed, client-centered approach that respects the emotional weight of family law matters. We know these cases touch every part of your life: your home, your children, your safety, your finances, and your future. Our attorneys take the time to listen, understand your goals, and craft a legal strategy that protects what matters most.
Family Law Services Rooted in Dignity and Support
Family law is complex, but our approach is simple: we walk with our clients through every step of the journey, offering clear explanations, steady guidance, and strong advocacy in and out of the courtroom.
We assist clients with the full spectrum of family law needs, including domestic violence protection, divorce, custody and visitation arrangements, parenting plans, child and spousal support, enforcement of existing court orders, and modifications when life circumstances change. We also help families grow through adoption, support individuals seeking a name change, and serve as Guardian ad Litem in cases involving the best interests of a child.
Whether you’re trying to ensure your safety, protect your financial stability, preserve a relationship with your child, or resolve a conflict with dignity, our team is here to help you move forward with clarity—not confusion.
Who We Serve
Many people come to Charleston Legal Access feeling unsure if anyone can help them. They may have been turned away from free legal aid due to income limits, yet still find the cost of a private attorney out of reach. CLA was built specifically for this middle space: people who work hard, support their families, and contribute to our community, yet are left without legal options when crisis strikes.
You may qualify for our services if:
You live or work in Charleston, Berkeley, or Dorchester counties,
Your income falls within the middle-income range that is too high for free aid but too low for private legal fees,
You are facing a legal issue that affects your housing, safety, family stability, financial security, or long-term well-being,
You want representation from attorneys who take time to understand your situation and treat you with dignity and respect,
You are seeking a transparent, affordable fee structure that won’t put you into debt, and
You are ready for an advocate who truly listens and stands alongside you.
If you have ever thought, “I need a lawyer, but I don’t think I can afford one,” Charleston Legal Access may be the resource you’ve been searching for.
High-Quality Family Law Services on a Sliding Scale
Our sliding-scale model is designed to remove the financial barriers that keep families from securing legal protection. Fees start at $60 per hour, determined by income and family size, and are structured to keep services affordable without sacrificing quality.
We have seen firsthand how even limited attorney involvement can change the outcome of a case. A single consultation can help someone understand their rights. A well-prepared hearing can protect a family’s housing or safety. A thoughtful custody plan can create stability for a child. At CLA, your financial situation should never be a barrier to these outcomes.
Why Choose Charleston Legal Access?
Charleston Legal Access was founded with a deep conviction: justice should not be reserved for the wealthy. Our legal system functions best when every person, regardless of income, has meaningful access to representation. Too often, families in crisis are left to navigate complicated legal processes alone. We exist to change that.
Our clients choose CLA not just because our services are affordable, but because:
We take time to listen. We understand that every family’s story is unique.
We are mission-driven, not profit-driven. Our only goal is securing the best possible outcome for your family.
We believe in treating clients with dignity. You are not an inconvenience. You are not a burden. You are a person deserving of respect and compassion.
We understand the real-world consequences of legal emergencies. Without representation, people lose homes, income, relationships, and stability. We fight to prevent that.
We are part of the Charleston community. As the 2024 Clio Reisman Legal Impact Award winner, we are recognized nationally for our innovative approach and our commitment to expanding access to justice right here at home.
We believe that legal representation can change the trajectory of a family’s life. And we see it happen every single day.
At CLA, you’ll never be treated like a number or pushed through a system. You will have a team that cares about your story, understands your challenges, and stands firmly in your corner.
Speak With a Charleston Family Law Attorney Today
If you are facing a family law issue, you do not have to navigate it alone. Call (843) 640-5980 ext. 4 or complete our intake form in English or Español. A member of our team will contact you to learn more about your situation and discuss your options.
You are not alone. We are here to help.