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)
Justice Related Services offers supports to assist persons involved in the criminal justice system with mental illness and/or co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorder. Justice Related Services is comprised of several departments that serve individuals throughout all levels of the criminal justice system.
- To request supports for Diversion, County Support or Mental Health Court, fill out this form.
- To request supports for State Support Services, fill out 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
- Find out if you’re eligible to visit.
- Call 412-350-2413 or bring a state-issued ID to the Jail lobby at 950 Second Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 to register.
- 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.
- Call 1-800-862-6783
- Text "Action" to 412-324-3388
- Send an Email