Legal Help and Jail Resources

Get legal aid or help navigating the criminal justice system

Free resources and legal aid available in Allegheny County

Start with the Lawyer Referral Service of the Allegheny County Bar Association

Call 412-261-5555

If you have a criminal case, contact Allegheny County Public Defender’s Office
Visit the website
See all services
Review eligibility

Managing mental health while involved in the criminal justice system

Start with Allegheny County Justice Related Services (JRS)

You must be referred and include a psychiatric evaluation to get these services.

  • If you need support beyond your court hearing with housing or help with a substance use disorder, County Support Services may be for you. Complete this form.
  • Charged with a misdemeanor and have a diagnosed mental illness? You may be able to avoid jail time and get support through Mental Health Court. Complete this form.
  • The state offers support services too. Complete this form.

Email forms to DHS-JRS@alleghenycounty.us or mail to: Justice Related Services, Gristmill Corporate Center, Suite 201, Bellevue Rd., Pittsburgh, Pa 15229.

Questions? Call 412-301-8220

Visiting or contacting someone in jail

Start with the Allegheny County Jail

  1. Find out if you’re eligible to visit.
  2. Call 412-350-2413 or bring a state-issued ID to the Jail lobby at 950 Second Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 to register.
  3. Schedule your visit online or call 855-208-7349. Visits can be scheduled a week ahead but must be scheduled at least two days in advance.

How to prepare for your visit.

Support for people in jail and their loved ones

Start with the PA Prison Society Helpline

People who are in jail or prison in Pennsylvania and their loved ones can contact the Helpline to get reliable information about how to stay connected, what’s happening in a particular facility, and how to find resources.

The PA Prison Society is able to dispatch a staff person or volunteer prison monitor to facilities across Pennsylvania.

Please note the PA Prison Society is not a legal organization and cannot provide legal advice or assistance relating to an individual’s case and sentence.

Call 215-564-4775 or message the Helpline.

Other helpful resources

Have a question or concern about services?

DHS Director's Action Line specialists are available Monday - Friday 8AM - 5PM.

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