The Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) is a federally and privately funded program and the HelpLine is an easy way to apply for MLSA services. MLSA gives free legal help in civil cases to low-income people living in Montana and serves the entire state through many different kinds of programs and services. While the services are free, you may have to pay court costs. MLSA staff will help you apply over the telephone and the application will take about 10 minutes. If you qualify for help, you will get an appointment with an MLSA advocate, referred to a free attorney, or signed up for a self-help class. Don’t wait until the last minute to call about an emergency! The earlier you contact us, the easier it will be for both you and us. It will give us more time to help you. MLSA does not handle auto accidents, personal injury, business-related matters or any criminal cases (including traffic citations). MLSA usually does not accept ongoing cases for representation, such as changes to parenting plans or existing custody decrees. MLSA cannot accept cases where an attorney’s fee may be available.