Texas RioGrande Legal Aid – Brownsville Office

Office Hours

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Monday – Friday

Intake Hours and Guidelines 

Intake Hours are the hours that the office is able to accept calls to potentially accept new cases.

Call the Telephone Access to Justice (TAJ) hotline at 1-888-988-9996 during the following hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

We know that it is often difficult to get through to TRLA on the hotline and we apologize for the inconvenience. Texas RioGrande Legal Aid gets far more calls on the hotline every day than they are able to answer, especially calls related to family law issues.

It may be easier to reach us in the evening.

Eligibility Guidelines and Process

To qualify for free legal services from TRLA, an applicant must meet the income, asset, and immigration requirements established by the United States Congress, the Texas Legislature, and other funding sources. TRLA will always attempt to find a funding source that will permit representation for persons who are unable to afford the services of a private attorney.

The guidelines are complicated, but trained intake workers will be the first step of the process.  Applicants will be asked various questions regarding income, assets, and citizenship/immigration status in order to see whether they are eligible. To start the application process, visit How to Apply.

Unless under a special program, clients generally must be at/or under 125% to 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. This is measured based on your gross household monthly income versus your household size.

Please note, if you are going through a divorce, your spouse’s income does not count as your income.

How do I find out if I can get help from TRLA?

Client applications are reviewed based on financial eligibility and other requirements. Clients who are unsure whether they qualify for our services can call the intake phone number above.

What if I have an emergency?

In some cases, like domestic violence, evictions or service of court papers, you may need immediate legal help.

Please contact us right away. Make sure to let the intake worker know about any urgent deadlines. All conversations are confidential.

Languages Served

• Spanish Language Services are available
• For other languages interpreters are available upon request.