For thousands of Coloradans, access to justice is often out of reach due to the high cost of legal help. That’s where Colorado Legal Services (CLS) steps in — providing free legal aid to low-income residents and seniors across the state.
In just the first half of 2025, CLS has opened over 5,000 cases, focusing on critical areas like housing, family law, and consumer protection.
“I consider her my saving grace”
Cathy Super, a retired Denver Public Schools employee, described her panic after being served legal papers related to a payment dispute. She turned to CLS for help.
“I talked to [the attorney], and she took care of it. Within a day, it was all just fine. I didn’t even have to go to court,” Super said. “I consider her my saving grace.”
A Century of Free Civil Legal Aid
For over 100 years, Colorado Legal Services has helped people navigate complex civil legal matters at no cost. In 2024, CLS closed more than 8,000 cases and helped clients recover nearly $4 million in settlements and awards.
Common Legal Help Areas
According to CLS, their core services include:
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Housing Law:
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Defending against evictions
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Negotiating rent agreements
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Educating tenants on rights (e.g., security deposits, habitability)
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Connecting people to rental assistance
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Family Law:
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Representing domestic violence survivors
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Handling divorce, custody, and protection orders
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Consumer Law:
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Defending against illegal debt collection
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Preventing foreclosure
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Providing bankruptcy guidance
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“Consumers do have rights. Consumers do have options,” said Jose Valdez, supervising attorney of CLS’s housing and consumer law units.
Legal Clinics and Advocacy
While the nonprofit can’t take on every case, CLS attorneys offer legal advice, education, and courthouse clinics — particularly on eviction matters. In some cases, CLS even flips the script, challenging shady business practices rather than just defending their clients.
“We’ve had foreclosure and debt collection cases where we turned things on their head,” Valdez noted.
A Safety Net for the Most Vulnerable
From protecting tenants to fighting back against debt collection abuse, CLS continues to be a vital resource for Coloradans who might otherwise fall through the cracks.
“Oh my gosh, I could breathe again,” said Super, reflecting on her experience.
Need Legal Help?
To learn more or request help from Colorado Legal Services, click here.
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