When you’re facing a legal or personal challenge, knowing where to begin can feel uncertain. Fortunately, New Bedford offers a strong network of organizations ready to help. Whether you need assistance with a legal matter, guidance for an aging parent, or programs for your family, the following resources can connect you to trusted professionals and community services.
Legal Assistance and Information
These statewide and regional programs connect residents with free or affordable legal assistance and self-help materials:
- Massachusetts Legal Resource Finder: A searchable directory of programs that offer free or reduced-cost legal help across the Commonwealth.
- MassLegalHelp.org: Offers plain-language guides on topics like housing, family law, benefits, and elder rights.
- Finding Legal Help – Mass.gov: Provides statewide listings of lawyer referral services, legal aid programs, and community clinics.
- Justia Legal Aid & Pro Bono Directory – New Bedford: Lists nonprofit organizations and pro bono attorneys available in Bristol County.
Local Legal Aid and Pro Bono Providers
Several organizations serve New Bedford and the surrounding communities, offering no-cost or low-cost legal support to eligible residents:
- South Coastal Counties Legal Services (SCCLS) (21 South Sixth Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | Intake Line: (800) 244-9023): SCCLS provides civil legal aid in areas such as housing, elder law, family law, public benefits, and consumer protection. The New Bedford office also runs free “Lawyer for the Day” and legal education programs for residents.
- The Women’s Center (174 Union Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 996-3343): Offers domestic violence and sexual assault advocacy, legal referrals, emergency shelter, and support groups for survivors.
- Our Sister’s Place: Provides emergency shelter, advocacy, and legal referrals for survivors of domestic violence and their children.
Courts Serving New Bedford
New Bedford residents are served by several local courts that handle civil, criminal, housing, and family matters:
- New Bedford District Court (75 North Sixth Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 999-9700): Handles criminal, civil, small claims, and traffic matters for the city and surrounding area.
- Bristol County Superior Court – New Bedford (441 County Street, New Bedford, MA 02740): Oversees civil and criminal cases requiring jury trials or higher jurisdiction.
- Bristol County Probate and Family Court – New Bedford (505 Pleasant Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 999-5249): Handles estate administration, wills, guardianships, divorces, custody, and child support matters.
- Southeast Housing Court – New Bedford Session (139 Hathaway Road, New Bedford, MA 02746): Manages landlord-tenant disputes, evictions, and housing code enforcement cases.
- “Lawyer for the Day” Program – Probate and Family Court: Free legal advice is available most Mondays from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the registry office, helping self-represented litigants complete forms and understand their rights.
Resources for Seniors and Families
New Bedford’s senior and family support network includes both city-run programs and nonprofit organizations that promote safety, independence, and access to care:
- New Bedford Council on Aging (181 Hillman Street, Building 9, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 991-6250): Offers case management, transportation, meal delivery, fitness classes, and caregiver resources for older adults.
- South Coastal Counties Legal Services – Elder Law Program: Assists older adults with long-term care, benefits, housing, and estate planning matters.
- Coastline Elderly Services, Inc. (863 Belleville Avenue, New Bedford, MA 02745 | (508) 999-6400): Provides Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, home care coordination, and protective services for seniors.
Youth and Family Support
Families and young people in New Bedford can access programs that build connection, resilience, and opportunity:
- United Way of Greater New Bedford Family Resource & Development Center (128 Union Street, Suite 403, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 994-9625): Provides parenting classes, early childhood programs, family support services, and referrals to local agencies.
- Boys & Girls Club of Greater New Bedford / Wareham (166 Jenney Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 992-8011): Offers after-school programs, mentorship, and youth leadership opportunities.
- YMCA Southcoast – New Bedford Branch (25 South Water Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 997-0734): Provides childcare, youth enrichment, fitness programs, and community wellness initiatives.
- Child & Family Services, Inc. (965 Church Street, New Bedford, MA 02740 | (508) 996-3154): Offers mental health counseling, family therapy, crisis response, and adoption services.
Community and Public Resources
In addition to legal and social services, New Bedford offers a variety of educational and community programs designed to support residents of all ages:
- New Bedford Public Library (Main Library – 613 Pleasant Street, New Bedford, MA): Offers research assistance, public computers, community workshops, and homebound delivery services.
- FindHelp.org: Directory of hundreds of verified programs in New Bedford offering food assistance, housing support, transportation, and more.
- City of New Bedford Community Services Department: Coordinates public health, senior, youth, and neighborhood support programs throughout the city.
How We Can Help
At Surprenant, Beneski & Nunes, we know that connecting with the right resources is only the beginning. Our attorneys work with families and seniors in New Bedford on estate planning, elder law, and related matters, always focused on helping you protect your future.
If you need guidance or help connecting with community services, contact us today — we’re here to support you.