Legal Help for Single Mothers in Delaware

Legal Help for Single Mothers in Delaware — 2025 Ultimate Hub

Last updated: September 2025

This guide gives you fast, practical steps to get real legal help in Delaware. Every paragraph includes direct links to official agencies and reputable nonprofits so you can click and go.

If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Get immediate safety and a court order: File a same‑day Protection From Abuse (PFA) request with the Family Court; ask for an “emergency (ex parte) hearing” if you are in danger. Start at the Family Court PFA page, then call the Domestic Violence hotlines for safety planning and shelter. Use the New Castle hotline 1-302-762-6110 or Kent/Sussex hotline 1-302-422-8058 and open the Family Court PFA instructions. Family Court PFA, Domestic Violence Hotlines (DCADV). (courts.delaware.gov)
Stop an eviction clock: As soon as you get court papers, enroll in the Justice of the Peace Court’s eviction diversion process and ask for free “Right to Representation” help if your income is under 200% of poverty. Start at the JP Court landlord‑tenant page and the ACLU’s Right to Representation portal. JP Court Landlord‑Tenant, Right to Representation. (courts.delaware.gov)
Prevent a utility shutoff today: Call your utility and ask for a medical hold or a payment plan, then contact the Division of the Public Advocate for advocacy. Also apply for energy help through LIHEAP at Catholic Charities. Public Advocate (consumer help), LIHEAP at DHSS & Catholic Charities. (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)

Quick Help Box — Keep These 5 Contacts Handy

Legal Help Link (civil legal intake): 1-302-478-8850 and online screening; connects to CLASI, LSCD, and DVLS. Legal Help Link (DSBA public resources), LSCD important numbers. (dsba.org)
Family Court phone lines (case info and forms): New Castle 1-302-255-0300; Kent 1-302-672-1000; Sussex 1-302-855-7400. Family Court Home, Family Court Locations. (courts.delaware.gov)
Child Support (DCSS) customer service: New Castle 1-302-577-7171; Kent 1-302-739-8299; Sussex 1-302-856-5386. DCSS contact, DOJ Child Support info. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Delaware 211 (statewide referrals): Dial 2‑1‑1 or 1-800-560-3372; chat and text available. Delaware 211 — contact, About DE 211. (delaware211.org)
Victims’ Compensation (crime‑related costs): 1-302-255-1770; help with relocation, counseling, lost wages. VCAP overview, Compensation program details. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)

What Legal Help You Can Get for Free (or Low Cost) in Delaware

Start with intake, then match your problem to the right nonprofit. Together these groups cover housing, family law, public benefits, protection orders, immigration, disability rights, and consumer issues.

Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI): Civil legal help for housing, domestic violence, immigration for survivors, elders, and the statewide Protection & Advocacy program “Disability Rights Delaware.” Call Wilmington 1-302-575-0660, Dover 1-302-674-8500, Georgetown 1-302-856-0038; TTY lines available. CLASI — contact, Disability Rights Delaware (P&A). (declasi.org)
Legal Services Corporation of Delaware (LSCD): Consumer, landlord‑tenant, and other civil matters for income‑eligible residents; New Castle/Sussex 1-302-575-0408; Dover 1-302-734-8820. LSCD — contact, LSCD key numbers. (lscd.com)
Delaware Volunteer Legal Services (DVLS): Pro bono network focused on family law for survivors, guardianships, wills/POAs; online intake available; main line 1-302-478-8680. DVLS — get legal help, DVLS home. (dvls.org)
Legal Help Link (single entry hub): One online form routes you to the right legal aid or to DSBA’s paid Lawyer Referral if you’re not eligible for free help. Legal Help Link (DSBA), Find a Lawyer (DSBA Referral). (dsba.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Delaware 211 to warm‑transfer you to a live intake worker, then request a callback appointment if lines are busy. If you don’t qualify for free help, use the DSBA Lawyer Referral for a 30‑minute consult at about $35 and ask about sliding‑scale fees. Delaware 211, DSBA Referral details. (delaware211.org)

How to Get a Protection From Abuse (PFA) Order Fast

If you or your child face abuse or threats, you can ask the Family Court for a civil PFA order — same day if it’s an emergency.

Where to file: File in person during business hours or by email; ask for an emergency ex parte hearing if needed. The court provides the forms and service on the respondent. PFA process and forms, Family Court home. (courts.delaware.gov)
How long orders can last: Temporary ex parte orders can last up to 15 days (or extended to 30 for service issues); final “protective” terms can last up to 2 years or longer with aggravating circumstances. PFA info (durations), PFA instructions packet. (courts.delaware.gov)
Advocates and language access: Ask for the Domestic Violence Advocacy Program at 1-302-255-0420; interpreters are available through the Court Interpreter Program. PFA help line, Court Interpreter Program. (courts.delaware.gov)
24/7 hotlines: New Castle 1-302-762-6110; Kent/Sussex 1-302-422-8058; bilingual 1-302-745-9874. These lines can connect you to shelter, safety plans, and court support. DCADV hotlines, DVCC hotline list. (dcadv.org)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call the Police or 911 if a PFA is violated or you are in danger, and ask about criminal charges for violations; also call the DOJ Victim Service Unit 1-800-870-1790 for support filing Victims’ Compensation for relocation or locks. VCAP resources, VCAP program. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)

PFA at a glance — what to expect

Step	Where/How	Typical Timing	Notes
File PFA forms	Family Court Resource Center or by email	Same day	Ask for ex parte if in danger; court handles service. PFA page (courts.delaware.gov)
Emergency order	Hearing with Commissioner/Judge	Same day or next business day	Temporary order up to 15 days; extension possible. PFA durations (courts.delaware.gov)
Case Review/Trial	Zoom or in person	Scheduled by Court	Bring evidence; trial may be set if no agreement. PFA process (courts.delaware.gov)

Child Support and Custody — What Single Moms Need to Know

Start child support the simple way: Open a case with the Division of Child Support Services; they handle paternity testing, wage attachment, and enforcement. Call 1-302-577-7171 (NC), 1-302-739-8299 (Kent), or 1-302-856-5386 (Sussex). DCSS site, DCSS contacts. (dhss.delaware.gov)
How support is calculated: Delaware uses the “Melson Formula,” updated through Family Court rules; there’s an official calculator worksheet you file with your case. Family Court child support calculators, Family Law Commission notes on Melson. (courts.delaware.gov)
File custody with required forms: Required forms include Petition for Custody (Form 345), Custody Separate Statement (Form 346) and Information Sheet (Form 240). Most cases go to mediation before a judge hearing unless there is domestic violence. Custody forms list, Custody process page. (courts.delaware.gov)
Parenting classes and mediation: Parents must complete an approved “Parenting Education” seminar; mediation is standard in custody/visitation unless bypassed for safety. Parent Education FAQs, Mediation FAQ. (courts.delaware.gov)
Fee waivers: If filing fees are a barrier, ask the clerk for the Family Court’s “Schedule of Assessed Costs” and the fee‑waiver process; bring income proof when applying “in forma pauperis.” Family Court fees, How to file and pay. (courts.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If the other parent isn’t paying, ask DCSS to enforce through wage attachment or license suspension; if orders need updating, file a Petition to Modify Support and use the calculator. DCSS enforcement, Support calculator. (dhss.delaware.gov)

Eviction, Rent, and Your Rights in JP Court

Eviction diversion and timing: All residential eviction filings after July 1, 2024, require landlords to participate in the court’s diversion program and, when applicable, mediation before a hearing. After filing, tenants have 15 days from formal service to engage with the program. JP Court landlord‑tenant page, JP Court overview. (courts.delaware.gov)
Right to representation for low‑income renters: State law now provides free legal representation for eligible tenants in eviction and subsidy‑termination cases; the three legal aid providers staff these cases. ACLU Right to Representation explainer, House press summary of SB 1(S). (aclu-de.org)
Appeals and defaults: If you lose by default, you have 10 days to file a motion to vacate in summary possession; appeals must be filed within 5 days. Move fast. JP Court post‑judgment guide, Interactive JP forms. (courts.delaware.gov)
Emergency rental help — 2025 reality check: Delaware’s Housing Stability Program (HSP), which paid up to $1,800 per month for some households, closed new applications on May 7, 2025, due to expiring federal funds. Call 211 and your local housing counselor for current stopgaps. DSHA HSP closure notice, Delaware 211. (destatehousing.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for mediation through JP Court, call Legal Help Link for representation, and contact HUD‑approved housing counselors for budgeting and referral help. Use the centralized intake (call or text 1-833-FIND‑BED) if you’re homeless or at risk. JP landlord‑tenant mediation, HUD Delaware page. (courts.delaware.gov)

Eviction in Delaware — quick reference

Topic	What to Know	Where to Act
Diversion	Landlord must participate; tenant must engage within 15 days after service. JP Court (courts.delaware.gov)	Use court platform; request mediation.
Hearing timing	Hearings often set quickly; check your summons for date and location. JP Court (courts.delaware.gov)	Appear or risk default.
Default/Appeal	Motion to vacate default in 10 days; appeal in 5 days. Post‑judgment (courts.delaware.gov)	File at same JP Court.

Utilities — How to Stop a Shutoff in Delaware Today

First call your utility and ask for a plan or medical certification hold: Then get a consumer advocate on your side through the Division of the Public Advocate. Delmarva Power customer care is 1-800-375-7117; the Public Advocate is 1-888-607-2427. Public Advocate contacts, Delmarva customer help (PSC posting). (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
Apply for LIHEAP (energy bill help): LIHEAP is administered with Catholic Charities phone lines by county; FY2025 heating benefits range (minimum ~ $100 u pt o$ 2,561) and crisis amounts can be higher, subject to eligibility and funding. Call New Castle 1-302-654-9295, Kent 1-302-674-1782, Sussex 1-302-856-6310. LIHEAP Clearinghouse (updated Mar 18, 2025), Catholic Charities energy assistance. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Water bill help — Wilmington example: The City of Wilmington’s Utility Payment Assistance Program offers up to $1,500 for eligible customers with 90‑day delinquencies. Call 311 or apply online. Wilmington UPAP, Wilmington water billing help. (wilmingtondewater.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the Public Service Commission about shutoff rules and formal complaints; also contact Delaware 211 for local church and charity funds. PSC Customer Assistance, Delaware 211. (depsc.delaware.gov)

Utility help — quick table

Need	Who to Call	Notes
Payment plan/medical hold	Your utility, then Division of the Public Advocate 1-888-607-2427	Get plan in writing; ask about budget billing. Public Advocate (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
Energy bill help (LIHEAP)	Catholic Charities by county	Apply early; bring income proof and a bill. LIHEAP (state) (dhss.delaware.gov)
Water bill help (Wilmington)	311 or online UPAP	One‑time assistance up to $1,500 if eligible. UPAP (wilmingtondewater.gov)

Public Benefits, SNAP/TANF, and Appeals

Apply or check status online: Use the ASSIST portal to apply for SNAP, TANF, child care (POC), Medicaid and LIHEAP screening; call DSS Customer Relations at 1-866-843-7212 with case questions. ASSIST apply, DSS home. (assist.dhss.delaware.gov)
If benefits are cut or denied: Request a fair hearing quickly; SNAP has strict federal timelines. The hearing office notifies all parties and you can review the evidence at no cost. DSS fair hearings overview, DSS main page. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Cash aid (TANF) basics: State rules require work activities and have a 36‑month limit for most families; income tests and required classes apply. Confirm current amounts with DSS before you apply. TANF info (FFY 2025 updates), TANF program page. (dhss.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask CLASI or LSCD about benefits appeals, and call Delaware 211 to find a navigator or legal clinic that can help with forms and deadlines. CLASI contact, LSCD contact. (declasi.org)

Work, Pay, and Discrimination

Discrimination at work: File with the Delaware Department of Labor’s Office of Anti‑Discrimination; processing often takes 6–9 months. Intake by phone or email with offices statewide. OAD discrimination, How to file a charge. (labor.delaware.gov)
Wage problems: The Wage & Hour Unit enforces minimum wage ($15.00 as of Jan 1, 2025), pay frequency, and wage payment laws; you can file a wage claim. Minimum wage, Wage payment rules. (labor.delaware.gov)
Paid family & medical leave: Delaware Paid Leave contributions started Jan 1, 2025; workers can apply for benefits beginning Jan 1, 2026; check your employer’s size and coverage. Delaware Paid Leave, Program timeline. (labor.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Talk to LSCD about consumer/credit fallout from lost wages, and ask Delaware 211 to locate a workforce or tenant‑rights clinic; you may also qualify for unemployment appeals help. LSCD contact, Delaware 211. (lscd.com)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

Domestic violence services: CHILD, Inc. hotline 1-302-762-6110; SAFE at People’s Place 1-302-422-8058; Abriendo Puertas Spanish hotline 1-302-745-9874. These programs provide safety planning, shelter, and court advocacy. CHILD, Inc. — get help, Abriendo Puertas — People’s Place. (childinc.com)
Immigrant and refugee help: La Esperanza in Georgetown offers immigration counseling and victim services; Jewish Family Services (JFS) participates in refugee support networks. Call La Esperanza 1-302-854-9262; JFS 1-302-478-9411. La Esperanza, HIAS partner list (JFS DE). (laesperanzacenter.org)
Aging and disability: Call the ADRC at 1-800-223-9074 for 24/7 navigation to services; ask about home modifications, respite, and assistive tech. Delaware ADRC — contact, ADRC services (DHSS). (delawareadrc.com)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Delaware 211 to identify church‑based benevolence funds in your ZIP code, and contact your city utility office about hardship programs (e.g., Dover Customer Service 1-302-736-7035). Delaware 211, City of Dover utilities. (delaware211.org)

Resources by Region

New Castle County — Wilmington/Newark area

Start at the Leonard L. Williams Justice Center for Family Court matters; call the county Family Court line at 1-302-255-0300 and the OCA main line at 1-302-255-1730 for child‑welfare matters. Use Wilmington’s water assistance (UPAP) for past‑due water bills. Family Court locations, OCA contacts. (courts.delaware.gov)

Local help: LSCD 1-302-575-0408; CLASI 1-302-575-0660; DVLS 1-302-478-8680; Public Advocate 1-302-577-5077. LSCD contact, CLASI contact. (lscd.com)

Kent County — Dover/central Delaware

File at the Dover Family Court (400 Court Street); call 1-302-672-1000. City of Dover utilities provide payment arrangements; see Customer Service at 1-302-736-7035 for plans. Family Court Dover, Dover Customer Service. (courts.delaware.gov)

Local help: LSCD 1-302-734-8820; CLASI 1-302-674-8500; DCSS 1-302-739-8299. LSCD contact, CLASI contact. (lscd.com)

Sussex County — Georgetown/southern Delaware

File at Georgetown Family Court (22 The Circle); call 1-302-855-7400. For utilities, check Lewes BPW’s assistance and reach Catholic Charities Georgetown at 1-302-856-9578 for LIHEAP help. Family Court Georgetown, Lewes BPW help. (courts.delaware.gov)

Local help: CLASI 1-302-856-0038; La Esperanza immigration help 1-302-854-9262; DCSS 1-302-856-5386. CLASI contact, La Esperanza. (declasi.org)

Diverse Communities — Targeted Supports

LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask CLASI about LGBTQ‑affirming family law help and use the Family Court Interpreter Program for inclusive language access if needed; DCADV hotlines support all survivors and offer confidential safety planning. CLASI services, Court Interpreter Program. (declasi.org)
Single Mothers with Disabilities or Disabled Children: Disability Rights Delaware (P&A within CLASI) can advocate for access, accommodations, and services; the Parent Information Center of Delaware (PIC) helps with IEPs and special education rights. Call ADRC at 1-800-223-9074 for assistive technology and in‑home supports; ask for large‑print or alternative‑format applications when needed. Disability Rights Delaware, PIC of Delaware. (declasi.org)
Veteran single mothers: Contact the Office of Veterans Services in Dover at 1-302-739-2792 and the Wilmington VA Medical Center at 1-302-994-2511; ask for Veterans Justice Outreach if housing or court issues are tied to service. DE Office of Veterans Services, Wilmington VA contacts. (vets.delaware.gov)
Immigrant/refugee Single Moms: La Esperanza provides affordable immigration services (SIJS, VAWA, U visa, naturalization) and crisis navigation; Jewish Family Services participates in refugee support networks. Request interpreters through courts and agencies, and ask for translated forms where available. La Esperanza immigration, HIAS/JFS partners. (laesperanzacenter.org)
Tribal‑specific resources: The state‑recognized Nanticoke Indian Tribe (Millsboro) and the Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware (Dover/Cheswold area) offer cultural and community connections; contact Nanticoke at 1-302-945-3400 and Lenape at 1-302-730-4601 for referrals. Nanticoke Indian Tribe, Lenape Indian Tribe of Delaware. (nanticokeindians.org)
Rural single moms with limited access: Use Delaware 211 text‑to‑chat and the ADRC call center; ask courts for remote hearings when permitted and request interpreters 14 days in advance to avoid delays. Delaware 211, Court Interpreter Program. (delaware211.org)
Single fathers: All services above apply regardless of gender; fathers can file for custody, support, and PFAs and access right‑to‑counsel in eviction cases if income‑eligible. Family Court custody, Right to Representation. (courts.delaware.gov)
Language access: Courts and many agencies provide interpreters at no cost; request early. Ask DSS, DCSS, and the courts for translated forms, and use Delaware Relay by dialing 7‑1‑1 if you are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Court Interpreter Program, DSS home (language and ADA). (courts.delaware.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Delaware Today

Step 1 — Call your utility’s collections line and ask for a payment plan: If someone in the home has a serious health condition, ask your doctor for a medical certification to delay shutoff. Public Advocate electric info, PSC customer assistance. (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
Step 2 — Apply for energy help (LIHEAP): Contact Catholic Charities by county and upload the requested documents; ask about crisis funds for shutoff notices. LIHEAP county contacts (2025), Catholic Charities energy assistance. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Step 3 — Call the Public Advocate if the plan is denied: Ask for advocacy with your utility; request a supervisor review. Public Advocate contacts, Public Advocate utility help. (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact your city water program (e.g., Wilmington UPAP) or municipal utilities (e.g., Dover Customer Service) for hardship funds; call Delaware 211 for nonprofit funds. Wilmington UPAP, City of Dover utilities. (wilmingtondewater.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Waiting until the hearing to ask for help: Intake lines get backed up. Call Legal Help Link or a provider as soon as you receive a notice. DSBA public resources, LSCD important numbers. (dsba.org)
Not opening mail from the Court or DHSS: Deadlines can be as short as 5–10 days in eviction and benefits matters; missing one can end your case. JP Court post‑judgment, DSS fair hearings. (courts.delaware.gov)
Showing up without documents: Bring ID, proof of income, leases, bills, child birth certificates, existing orders, and proof of service attempts. Family Court how to file, Custody forms. (courts.delaware.gov)

Reality Check

Expect delays and limited funding: HSP rental funds closed to new apps in May 2025; other programs have caps and waiting lists. Call to confirm current availability before applying and ask for written timeframes. DSHA HSP closure, HUD Delaware rent resources. (destatehousing.com)
Court schedules move quickly in eviction and PFAs: Hearings can be set within days; arrange childcare, transportation, and interpreters early. JP landlord‑tenant, Family Court PFA. (courts.delaware.gov)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Topic	First Call	Backup
Domestic violence/PFA	Family Court PFA page + hotline	CLASI/DVLS for representation. PFA page (courts.delaware.gov)
Eviction	Right to Representation intake + JP diversion	LSCD housing unit; JP forms. RTR Coalition (aclu-de.org)
Child support	DCSS county line	Family Court support mediation. DCSS (dhss.delaware.gov)
Utilities	Your utility + Public Advocate	LIHEAP via Catholic Charities. Public Advocate (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)
Benefits appeal	DSS fair hearing	CLASI/LSCD for appeal help. DSS fair hearings (dhss.delaware.gov)

Application Checklist — Print or Screenshot and Use

Photo ID and proof of Delaware address: License, state ID, lease, or utility bill. Family Court “How to File”, DSS apply (ASSIST). (courts.delaware.gov)
Income proof for last 30–60 days: Pay stubs, benefits letters, child support records. DSS programs, LIHEAP info (2025). (dhss.delaware.gov)
Court forms: Custody or support packets, PFA forms, fee‑waiver papers if needed. Custody forms, Family Court fees. (courts.delaware.gov)
Evidence: Texts, photos, medical notes (bring the provider or subpoena if needed), police reports, leases, bills, and notices. PFA process tips, JP landlord‑tenant. (courts.delaware.gov)
Interpreter request (if needed): Ask the court 14 days ahead; request large print or other formats. Court Interpreter Program, ADRC contact for accessibility. (courts.delaware.gov)

If Your Application Gets Denied (or Your Case Is Dismissed)

Read the denial or order closely: Note the appeal deadline. Eviction appeals are 5 days; motions to vacate default are 10 days in summary possession. JP post‑judgment, JP Court home. (courts.delaware.gov)
Ask for a hearing or reconsideration: File the correct form and attach proof; ask the clerk which form is needed and whether fees can be waived. Family Court filing & payment, Family Court fees. (courts.delaware.gov)
Get counsel on the record: For evictions, contact Right to Representation intake; for DV family matters, ask DVLS or CLASI; for benefits appeals, call CLASI/LSCD. RTR Coalition, Legal Help Link. (aclu-de.org)

County‑Specific Notes

New Castle County: City of Wilmington water program (UPAP) can stop a lien or shutoff while you stabilize; DV hotline 1-302-762-6110. Wilmington UPAP, DCADV hotlines. (wilmingtondewater.gov)
Kent County: Dover utilities accept payment plans; call 1-302-736-7035; DV hotline 1-302-422-8058. Dover utilities, DCADV hotlines. (cityofdover.com)
Sussex County: Lewes BPW has community aid options; La Esperanza provides bilingual legal navigation. Lewes BPW assistance, La Esperanza. (lewesbpwde.gov)

Timelines and What to Expect

PFA emergency hearings: Same day or next business day; temporary orders up to 15 days; final order up to 2 years or more with aggravating facts. PFA process, PFA durations. (courts.delaware.gov)
Eviction process: Diversion and mediation before most hearings; act within 15 days after service to satisfy the requirement and protect your defenses. Landlord‑tenant page, JP Court home. (courts.delaware.gov)
LIHEAP: Heating season typically Oct 1–Apr 30; cooling May 1–Aug 31; crisis year‑round, subject to funds. Confirm by county before you go. LIHEAP Clearinghouse (3/18/2025), DHSS LIHEAP. (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)

Tables You Can Scan Quickly

Key Legal Hotlines and Offices

Service	Contact	How to Use
Legal Help Link	1-302-478-8850	One intake routes to CLASI/LSCD/DVLS or referral. Legal Help Link (dsba.org)
Family Court Info	NC 1-302-255-0300; Kent 1-302-672-1000; Sussex 1-302-855-7400	Case questions, forms, locations. Family Court Home (courts.delaware.gov)
DCSS Child Support	See county lines above	Open/enforce support; update orders. DCSS (dhss.delaware.gov)

Family Court Filing Costs and Waivers

Item	Where to Check	Tip
Schedule of costs	Family Court fees page	Ask about “in forma pauperis” fee waiver. Family Court fees (courts.delaware.gov)
Filing info	“How to File” page	File by email for many civil matters. How to File (courts.delaware.gov)

Eviction Defense Essentials

Protection	Eligibility	Where
Right to Representation	≤200% FPL	ACLU RTR Coalition; legal aid partners. RTR (aclu-de.org)
Diversion/Mediation	All residential cases (filed after 7/1/24)	JP Court portal and mediators. JP landlord‑tenant (courts.delaware.gov)

Utilities and Energy Help

Program	Contact	Notes
LIHEAP	County numbers (New Castle 1-302-654-9295; Kent 1-302-674-1782; Sussex 1-302-856-6310)	Heating/cooling/crisis; amounts vary by year. LIHEAP profile (liheapch.acf.hhs.gov)
Public Advocate	1-888-607-2427	Consumer advocacy with utilities. DPA contacts (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)

Benefits Appeals

Program	Deadline Hints	Where to Appeal
SNAP/TANF/Medicaid	See notice; act quickly	DSS fair hearings; free copies of records. DSS fair hearings (dhss.delaware.gov)

Real‑World Examples

You get a 5‑day rent notice and then a court summons: Register for eviction diversion immediately and request Right to Representation. Ask LSCD for help with negotiation. If you miss the first date, file a motion fast (within 10 days for defaults). JP landlord‑tenant, JP post‑judgment. (courts.delaware.gov)
You need child support and custody: Open a DCSS case for support, then file custody forms and attend mediation; ask the court for fee‑waiver papers if you cannot afford fees. DCSS, Custody forms. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Your power is about to be shut off: Call Delmarva now, ask for a payment plan and medical hold if applicable; then apply for LIHEAP and call the Public Advocate for assistance. PSC article with Delmarva help, Public Advocate contacts. (depsc.delaware.gov)

FAQs (Delaware‑Specific)

How do I get free legal help for an eviction in Delaware: Apply through the Right to Representation program and use the JP Court eviction diversion platform as soon as your case is filed; many tenants qualify based on income. RTR Coalition, JP landlord‑tenant. (aclu-de.org)
What if I need a PFA today: Go to the Family Court PFA page, complete forms, and request an emergency ex parte hearing; call the 24/7 hotlines for safety planning and shelter. Family Court PFA, DCADV hotlines. (courts.delaware.gov)
Can the court provide an interpreter: Yes. Request interpreter services early (14 days recommended), including ASL or CART; it’s free. Court Interpreter Program, Interpreter FAQs. (courts.delaware.gov)
How are Delaware child support amounts set: The court uses the Melson Formula; use the official calculator and include the worksheet with your filing or mediation. Child support calculators, Family Law Commission — Melson. (courts.delaware.gov)
Where do I appeal a benefits denial: Request a DSS fair hearing right away by phone, online, or in writing; you can review the agency’s case file for free before the hearing. DSS fair hearings, DSS home. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Is emergency rental help still available in 2025: DSHA’s HSP closed to new applications on May 7, 2025; call 211 and your housing counselor for current limited programs or diversion resources. DSHA HSP closure, HUD Delaware. (destatehousing.com)
Who helps with disability rights or school IEPs: Contact Disability Rights Delaware (P&A) at CLASI and the Parent Information Center of Delaware for IEP advocacy and training. Disability Rights Delaware, PIC of Delaware. (declasi.org)
Can I get help if I’m an immigrant or refugee: Yes. La Esperanza offers immigration legal services; courts provide interpreters; JFS is part of refugee support networks. La Esperanza, HIAS/JFS partners. (laesperanzacenter.org)
How do I seek crime victim compensation: Apply to the Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program within one year; call 1-302-255-1770. VCAP overview, Compensation program. (attorneygeneral.delaware.gov)
I live outside Wilmington; who can help with water bills: Check your city or utility (e.g., Dover Customer Service) for payment arrangements; ask Delaware 211 for local funds and LIHEAP for energy. City of Dover utilities, Delaware 211. (cityofdover.com)

Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español

Esta guía ofrece pasos rápidos para madres solteras en Delaware. Para protección inmediata, presente una orden de Protección contra el Abuso (PFA) en el Tribunal de Familia y llame a las líneas directas 24/7: 1-302-762-6110 (New Castle) y 1-302-422-8058 (Kent/Sussex). Use el programa de “Derecho a Representación” si enfrenta desalojo y comuníquese con 2‑1‑1 para recursos locales. Para apoyo de manutención infantil, comuníquese con la División de Servicios de Manutención Infantil (DCSS). Para facturas de energía, aplique a LIHEAP por medio de Caridades Católicas y llame a la Oficina del Defensor Público del Consumidor para asistencia con empresas de servicios. Enlace a recursos: Tribunal de Familia — PFA, Líneas directas de violencia doméstica, Derecho a Representación, Delaware 211, DCSS, LIHEAP. Esta traducción fue producida con herramientas de IA; confirme detalles con las agencias oficiales. (courts.delaware.gov)

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Family Court of the State of Delaware and Justice of the Peace Court (forms, processes, fees). (courts.delaware.gov)
Community Legal Aid Society, Inc. (CLASI), Legal Services Corporation of Delaware, and Delaware Volunteer Legal Services. (declasi.org)
Delaware 211, Division of Child Support Services, and Department of Justice — VCAP. (delaware211.org)
Delaware State Housing Authority, HUD Delaware, and ACLU Delaware — Right to Representation. (destatehousing.com)
Division of the Public Advocate, DHSS LIHEAP, and the LIHEAP Clearinghouse (Mar 18, 2025). (publicadvocate.delaware.gov)

Last verified: September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Program rules change, funding opens and closes, and court processes can shift. Always verify details with the agency or court before you file, and keep copies of everything you submit. Use interpreters and accessibility services when needed to protect your rights. Family Court, Delaware 211. (courts.delaware.gov)

What to do next

Bookmark: The Family Court pages you need and the Right to Representation portal. Family Court, RTR Coalition. (courts.delaware.gov)
Call: Your county DCSS number and set up a support case while custody proceeds. DCSS contacts, Child support page. (dhss.delaware.gov)
Apply: For LIHEAP if bills are a crisis and ask the Public Advocate for help with utilities. LIHEAP, Public Advocate. (dhss.delaware.gov)

You’ve got this. Use the links, make the calls, and keep notes. Every step you take builds your case and your stability.

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