Need help right now? Call or text 988 Dial 211 for local help Emergency 911
Find help
Reviewed October 1, 2026

Rhode Island Legal Services

Rhode Island Legal Services offers civil legal assistance to eligible residents. Intake reviews whether the organization can help with the particular issue.

Who can apply

Financial eligibility, the type of legal problem and available resources affect acceptance. An application does not guarantee representation.

What help is available

Help may include legal advice or representation in accepted civil matters. Contact intake promptly when a court deadline is approaching.

Documents to prepare

  • Notices, summons and hearing details.
  • Relevant lease, benefits, income or dispute records.
  • Household information needed for screening.

How to get started

  1. Request screening

    Use the application linked at RILS or call 401-274-2652.

  2. State deadlines

    Explain the legal issue and any scheduled court date.

  3. Confirm next steps

    If contacted, verify the application information and ask whether your case is accepted.

After applying

Keep all deadlines while waiting. Confirm the scope of any assistance directly with the organization.

Website screenshots

These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.

The Rhode Island Legal Services home page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The Rhode Island Legal Services online intake application.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Does the online request guarantee help?

No. RILS checks whether it can assist.

What if I face eviction?

Give intake the notices and any hearing date.

Is this a government benefit application?

It is a request for civil legal services.

When can I assume representation?

Only after the provider confirms acceptance.

Sources and review

Content checked October 1, 2026 using RILS intake; RILS contact. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.

Historical screenshots: source reference.