HCBF's Judicare program assists financially qualified individuals and their families obtain legal representation for family law issues such as custody and divorce. Clients may apply for this program through the online application. If accepted, clients are placed with an attorney who will provide pro bono (for free) services. HCBF also places income eligible individuals with attorneys who will represent them on a reduced-fee basis.
In addition to the reduced fee and pro bono services, there is a lawyer referral service. This service is offered to members of the Harford County Bar Association, who participate in our various programs. This service refers the public to attorneys for representation in all areas of law. HCBF does not charge for this service. Fees are arranged directly between clients and attorneys.
If an individual is ineligible for free representation under the Office of the Public Defender's income guidelines, then the Office of the Public Defender refers the cases to the Criminal Reduced Fee Program. The Lawyer Referral Service places these cases with local attorneys, who will charge the individual a reduced fee to handle the case. (HCBF charges a $50 administrative fee for this service)