ORDER OF MALTA LEGAL CLINIC IS HERE TO HELP YOU:
-
UNDERSTAND YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS
So you can make informed decisions with clarity and confidence.
-
GET TRUSTED GUIDANCE
From experienced attorneys who care deeply about your situation.
-
NAVIGATE COMPLEX LEGAL ISSUES
From employment and housing to immigration and family matters.
-
ACCESS FREE LEGAL SUPPORT
Without worrying about fees, hidden costs, or pressure.
-
FIND PEACE OF MIND
Knowing someone is listening and helping you take the next step
-
CONNECT WITH A COMPASSIONATE LEGAL TEAM
Grounded in service, faith, and dignity for all.
“A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just.”
— Pope Francis
Our clinic was founded on the belief that legal help should be accessible to all.
Many in our community face legal challenges with no support.
We aim to change that—one conversation at a time. The success of the clinic is rooted in our faith, our volunteers, and our unwavering commitment to serve the underserved with dignity. Inspired by the spirit of Pope Francis and supported by the Diocese, we are proud to continue this vital work in Oakland.
Contact
To make an appointment, please call the Chancery Receptionist at:
Tel: +1 (510) 893-4711
Hours
We are open for appointments on the following days:
Tuesday: 10 am to 2 pm
Thursday: 10 am to 2 pm
Most clients are seen within a few days of calling.
While in-person consultations are preferred, phone appointments can be arranged upon request.
About the Order of Malta Legal Clinic
Free Legal Advice for the Oakland Community
The Order of Malta Legal Clinic—formerly known as the Pope Francis Legal Clinic—was founded in June 2016 in the Diocese of Oakland with the blessing of Bishop Michael C. Barber, S.J. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to provide free legal consultation in Oakland to individuals who otherwise wouldn’t have access to legal support.
We offer pro bono legal advice through a team of compassionate, experienced retired attorneys. Every consultation is 100% free. While we do not represent clients in court or take legal action, our legal experts help you understand your situation, provide strategic guidance, and refer you to affordable legal resources if necessary. Many clients return for multiple visits as they navigate their legal questions.
Our legal services comply with California State Bar rules, ensuring transparency and integrity.
We Are Here To Help You
Consultations are available for a wide range of legal issues including:
Employment Law
We guide you through workplace disputes, wrongful termination, and unpaid wages.
Immigration Concerns
We help you understand visas, green cards, and your immigration options.
Personal Injury
We offer clarity on injury claims and your legal rights after an accident
Domestic & Family Matters
We support you with custody, divorce, and other family law concerns.
All services are free of charge and offered by retired attorneys with 30+ years of experience, who volunteer their time as part of their Catholic vocation to help the sick and the poor.
Most clients can be seen within a few days. While in-person appointments are preferred, phone consultations can be arranged upon request.
Every volunteer attorney at the clinic is a practicing Catholic with 30+ years of legal experience, committed to offering compassionate, ethical, and expert legal advice to those in need.
Contact
To make an appointment, please call the Chancery Receptionist at:
Tel: +1 (510) 893-4711
Hours
We are open for appointments on the following days:
Tuesday: 10 am to 2 pm
Thursday: 10 am to 2 pm
© 2025 Order of Malta Clinic of Northern California. All Rights Reserved. Tax ID: 20-5969389