If your rights are being violated, what can you do—especially when you can’t afford legal support? That’s where the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) comes in. This nonprofit fights for civil liberties through strategic litigation and can help you take legal action—when your case meets key criteria. In this post, we’ll walk you through exactly how to request legal assistance from the ACLU, how they select cases, and what to expect next. With affiliates in every U.S. state, the ACLU has already supported people like you in cases involving protest rights, censorship in schools, and discriminatory government actions. If your experience highlights a bigger issue affecting others, the ACLU may step in.
1. Start With the ACLU Affiliate Directory
The first step is to find your local ACLU affiliate. Each affiliate operates independently and reviews cases specific to their region.
What to do:
- Visit the ACLU Affiliate Directory
- Select your state or territory.
- Locate the “Get Legal Help” or “File a Complaint” section on their site. Most will direct you to an online intake form where you describe your situation in detail.
Tip: Be concise but clear. Focus on how your constitutional rights were violated, not just personal grievances.
2. Know the Types of Cases the ACLU Takes
The ACLU does not offer general legal aid or take every case. Their legal support is focused on civil liberties issues with the potential to set legal precedents or change policy.
Common case types include:
- City laws that unconstitutionally restrict protests.
- Schools punishing students for lawful speech or political expression.
- Government agencies discriminating based on religion, gender, or immigration status.
They will likely decline cases involving:
- Private disputes (e.g., landlord-tenant issues) unless civil rights are implicated.
- Isolated incidents without broader civil liberties impact.
- Criminal defense, unless it ties into broader constitutional violations like wrongful arrest during protest.
3. Submit Your Story and Wait for Review
Once you’ve submitted your case through the affiliate’s intake form, the waiting begins. Because the ACLU receives thousands of requests, they only respond if your issue qualifies under their guidelines.
What happens next? If your case aligns with their strategic priorities:
- A legal staff member may follow up for more information.
- They may offer direct representation or refer you to partner organizations.
- In some cases, they’ll file lawsuits with you as a named plaintiff to challenge unjust laws or practices.
Important: You may not receive a response if your case doesn’t meet their criteria. It’s not personal—it’s about mission fit and capacity.
4. Consider Other Avenues if Declined
If the ACLU cannot take your case, they often include a list of alternative resources. Legal aid societies, pro bono firms, or local bar associations may be better suited for issues like evictions, workplace disputes, or criminal charges. Start with:
- National Legal Aid & Defender Association
- Your local legal aid office (search by county or city)
Keep a record of your ACLU intake and any correspondence—this can help other lawyers pick up your case more quickly.
Your Rights Deserve Protection—And the ACLU Might Help
- Find Your Local ACLU Affiliate
Locate your state’s ACLU office to begin the legal intake process. - Know Your Rights Library
Comprehensive guides on your rights in various situations, including interactions with law enforcement, protests, immigration, and more. - What to Do If You’re Stopped by Police
Detailed guidance on your rights and steps to take during police encounters. - Contact the ACLU National Office
For general inquiries or if you need help navigating ACLU resources.
If your civil rights are on the line, don’t stay silent. Reach out to your state’s ACLU office today and take the first step toward justice. Your story could make a difference—for you and others.
Special Offer
While the ACLU does not provide direct legal research assistance, they offer a curated list of external resources to help individuals conduct their own legal research. This includes access to Supreme Court decisions, oral arguments, and comprehensive legal websites.
Explore the ACLU’s Legal Research Assistance resources.