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public benefits

We help appeal denials or other issues with state or county benefits (ex. CalWORKs, CalFresh, General Assistance, and IHSS).

Keeping public benefits programs accessible and effective for low-income families

We represent individuals and families appealing unlawful terminations and wrongful denials of state and local public benefits, work to ensure that the CalWORKs program serves as a bridge to gainful employment, and advocate with local governments to increase access to income support programs to improve the quality of life of individuals and families living in poverty.

Have Questions? Need Help?

  • Legal Advice Line: 800-551-5554
  • California Relay Service: Dial 7-1-1 or from TTY dial 1-800-735-2929 or visit California Relay Service for more information.

BayLegal's public benefits legal assistance program provides help with the following benefits programs:

  • CalWORKS (California Work Opportunities & Responsibilities to Kids Program)
  • CalFresh (aka food stamps)
  • California Food Assistance Program
  • General Assistance (GA)

News

Dec 22, 2025 January 20 @ 4:17 pm

CalFresh Update for San Francisco Residents Affected by the December 2025 Blackouts

Power was out to a large part of San Francisco over the weekend (December 20th-21st), and remains out in some neighborhoods as of the afternoon of December 22nd. At this…

Dec 10, 2025 January 20 @ 4:17 pm

Why Benefits Advocacy Is So Important to Me

This month marks 10 years since I started practicing law. In that time, I have helped hundreds of people secure access to the life-saving services they need – cash benefits…

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Aug 8, 2024 January 20 @ 4:17 pm

Contra Costa County Public Defender’s Office

Contra Costa Public Defenders (CCPD) provides constitutionally mandated representation to indigent individuals charged in adult and juvenile criminal court in Contra Costa County.