Legal Help for Single Mothers in New Jersey
Legal Help for Single Mothers in New Hampshire
Last updated: September 2025
This hub puts the fastest, most reliable legal help for single moms in one place. Every program, court, and hotline below links straight to the right page so you can act today.
If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take
- Call the statewide legal intake line at 1-800-639-5290 to reach 603 Legal Aid for same‑day triage on housing, family, benefits, and safety, or apply online 24/7 via 603 Legal Aid’s intake portal. Expect a callback that may show “Concord, NH.” (603legalaid.org)
- For protection from abuse or stalking, go to your nearest court or call the court information center at 1-855-212-1234 to start a protective‑order petition; there’s no filing fee, and a judge can grant a same‑day temporary order. See the court’s step‑by‑step guide at NH Judicial Branch Self‑Help and the orders page at Restraining Orders. (courts.nh.gov)
- If you’re about to lose heat or power, call your utility first and then the state’s Consumer Services at 1-800-852-3793; winter rules restrict shutoffs between November 15 and March 31. Read the rules and amounts at NH PUC Winter Disconnection Rules and ask your local Community Action Agency about the Electric Assistance Program. (puc.nh.gov)
Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy
- Court information line: call 1-855-212-1234 for clerk hours, forms, and locations; browse NH Courts Self‑Help and Contact a Court for local details. (courts.nh.gov)
- Domestic & sexual violence hotlines: 24/7 statewide lines — DV 1-866-644-3574, SA 1-800-277-5570; find your crisis center via NHCADSV and read how calls are returned within minutes at Crisis Centers. (nhcadsv.org)
- Child support help: apply or modify through NH DHHS Child Support Services and use the Child Support Guidelines & Calculator. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- General help/referrals 24/7: dial 2‑1‑1 or 1‑866‑444‑4211 for 211 NH, plus statewide updates at About 211 NH. (211nh.org)
- Victims’ compensation: apply for help with medical bills, counseling, and lost wages via NH DOJ Victims’ Compensation or call 1-800-300-4500; learn typical timeframes at Program FAQs. (doj.nh.gov)
How to Get a Lawyer Fast in New Hampshire
Start with one call. Apply with 603 Legal Aid at 1-800-639-5290 or online at 603 Legal Aid – Apply; phone intake runs Monday–Thursday mornings. If you only need quick advice, use NH Free Legal Answers and the monthly Lawline at 1-800-868-1212. (603legalaid.org)
If you can pay something but not full fees, ask the NH Bar Lawyer Referral Service at 603-229-0002 about the Modest Means Program (603-715-3290) for reduced‑rate attorneys; both are listed on the NH Courts Legal Assistance page. (nhbar.org)
If your case is about housing, family safety, or benefits, New Hampshire Legal Assistance (NHLA) may represent you; call 1-800-562-3174 or see office locations at NHLA Contact and their service areas at NHLA Services. (nhla.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask the NH Courts Information Center at 1-855-212-1234 for help finding forms; then try NH Bar Modest Means and post a question on NH Free Legal Answers while you keep calling 603 Legal Aid for cancellations. (courts.nh.gov)
Quick Table — Who to Call for What
| Issue | First call | Backup |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction or unsafe housing | 603 Legal Aid (1-800-639-5290) | NHLA Housing; NHLA Fair Housing Project (1-800-921-1115) (603legalaid.org) |
| Protection from abuse/stalking | File at NH Courts – Restraining Orders | NHCADSV hotlines (DV 1-866-644-3574 / SA 1-800-277-5570) (courts.nh.gov) |
| Divorce/parenting plan | NH Courts Family Division Forms | NH Bar LRS (603-229-0002) (courts.nh.gov) |
| Child support | DHHS Child Support – Apply | Child Support Guidelines & Calculator (dhhs.nh.gov) |
| Utility shutoff | Your utility, then PUC Consumer Services (1-800-852-3793) | Electric Assistance Program via Community Action Agency (puc.nh.gov) |
Family Law — Custody, Parenting Plans, Divorce, and Child Support
Start with the court’s required forms. Download the Parenting Plan (NHJB‑2064‑F) and the Financial Affidavit (NHJB‑2065‑F); both are on the NH Courts Family Division Forms page. Keep the Self‑Help Center open for step‑by‑step instructions. (courts.nh.gov)
Expect to attend the Child Impact Program (CIP), a 4‑hour parenting class required by law; the fee is $85, and you can ask for a waiver or reduction. Register through the court’s Child Impact Program page, and read Rule 2.10 on timing (within 45 days after service) at Family Division Rules. (courts.nh.gov)
For child support, use the official Child Support Guidelines & Calculator; New Hampshire updates its guideline tables every April 1 (latest 2024 table). Check the statutory percentages under RSA 458‑C:3 if you want to see how the numbers are set. (dhhs.nh.gov)
If you need the state to establish or enforce support, apply to the Bureau of Child Support Services (BCSS) online or ask for a mailed packet at Apply for Child Support Services; BCSS can file paternity actions and request income withholding. Contact the Central Information Unit at 1‑800‑852‑3345 ext. 14427 or 603‑271‑4427 if your income is above calculator limits. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Reality check: court staff give information, not legal advice; deadlines matter, and missing CIP can delay your case or lead to sanctions. Watch the Self‑Help videos and call the Information Center (1‑855‑212‑1234) with procedural questions, or get brief advice through NH Free Legal Answers. (courts.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t afford an attorney, ask 603 Legal Aid for advice or a referral, and if you can pay a reduced rate, apply to the NH Bar Modest Means Program. In emergencies involving safety, file a request for temporary orders at NH Courts Family Division and talk to an advocate at NHCADSV. (603legalaid.org)
Table — Common Family Law Steps and Timelines
| Step | What to file | Typical timing |
|---|---|---|
| Start a parenting or divorce case | Parenting Plan + Financial Affidavit | Clerk gives you case number; first appearance varies by court; call 1‑855‑212‑1234 for status. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Child Impact Program | Register with CIP providers | Take within 45 days after service; fee $85 unless waived/reduced. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Child support | Guidelines Calculator | Guidelines updated April 1 each year; bring printout to court. (dhhs.nh.gov) |
How to Get a Protection Order Today (Domestic Violence or Stalking)
Go to your closest Circuit Court — Family Division, ask for a “Protection from Abuse” (DV) or “Stalking” packet, and file for free. See the Orders of Protection overview and download the Stalking Petition (NHJB‑2051‑D) if needed. You can also call NHCADSV’s 24/7 statewide line at 1‑866‑644‑3574 for an advocate who can safety‑plan and help with court. (courts.nh.gov)
Key timelines: A judge can issue a same‑day temporary order ex parte if there’s immediate danger. If the defendant asks, a hearing on the temporary order must be held in 3–5 business days; the court must hold a full hearing within 30 days of filing or 10 days after service, whichever is later. These deadlines are set in RSA 173‑B:4 & :3 and the court’s Family Division Rules. (gc.nh.gov)
If you need a lawyer for the final hearing, ask about the DOVE Project (free pro bono representation for qualifying survivors). Contact an advocate through NHCADSV, or email 603 Legal Aid’s DOVE Project for details; DOVE partners with local crisis centers to connect you with trained attorneys. (603legalaid.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the court denies a temporary order, you can still get a final hearing date; bring police reports and witnesses. Re‑apply if incidents continue; use NHCADSV to find your local center, and ask 603 Legal Aid about appeal options. (nhcadsv.org)
Table — Protection Order At‑a‑Glance (NH)
| Topic | Where to find it | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| File forms | Restraining Orders Self‑Help | No filing fee; police serve for free. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Stalking petition form | NHJB‑2051‑D | Civil stalking order under RSA 633:3‑a. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Timeline | RSA 173‑B | Hearing within 30 days of filing or 10 days after service. (gc.nh.gov) |
Housing — How to Stop an Eviction Fast in New Hampshire
Don’t move out just because you got a notice. A landlord must serve a proper eviction notice first, then file a Landlord/Tenant Writ in court before a judge can order you out. Read the court’s overview at Landlord/Tenant (District Division) and the statute RSA 540:3 (Eviction Notice). (courts.nh.gov)
Notice periods: Most residential evictions require 30 days’ notice; 7 days is allowed for specific reasons such as nonpayment, substantial damage, or certain other causes listed in RSA 540:2. A 2024 change adds another 7‑day‑notice ground effective January 1, 2025. Confirm the reason on your notice and compare with RSA 540:3 or call 603 Legal Aid. (gc.nh.gov)
Court timeline: After notice expires, the landlord can buy a writ at court, pay the filing fee, and have the sheriff serve you. The court will mail a hearing date; if you miss it, a default can enter, and the Writ of Possession can issue no sooner than 5 business days after default. See NH District Division Landlord/Tenant and Rule 5.7 for details. (courts.nh.gov)
Security deposits: Landlords must return deposits with interest (if held a year+) within 30 days and provide an itemized list of damages; see RSA 540‑A:7 and the broader chapter on Prohibited Practices & Security Deposits. If you don’t receive the list and refund on time, ask 603 Legal Aid about small‑claims options. (gc.nh.gov)
Show up early on hearing day at Manchester or Nashua District Court — NHLA attorneys are on site weekly to advise tenants before their cases are called. Check topics at NHLA Services – Housing and ask the clerk about day‑of court help listed on Landlord/Tenant – District Division. (nhla.org)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call NHLA Housing and 603 Legal Aid again, and tell the clerk you need a fee waiver to file motions — use How to Request to Pay a Lower Fee or File for Free and the Application for Waiving Fee. Also ask HUD NH about counseling and fair‑housing complaints. (courts.nh.gov)
Table — Eviction Basics You Can Use
| Topic | Where to look | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Notice period | RSA 540:3 | 30 days for most reasons; 7 days for specific statutory reasons. (gc.nh.gov) |
| Court forms & process | Landlord/Tenant – District Division | Read the tenant information sheet; watch the short court video. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Writ of Possession | Rule 5.7 | After default, writ doesn’t issue for at least 5 business days. (courts.nh.gov) |
How to Stop a Utility Shutoff in New Hampshire Today
Act the same day you get a shutoff notice. Call your utility to set a payment plan, then call the state’s Consumer Services at 1‑800‑852‑3793 for help and to document the account as “financial hardship.” Read the limits under Winter Disconnection Rules and file a complaint if needed via PUC Consumer Services. (puc.nh.gov)
Winter protections run November 15–March 31: disconnection is harder and generally cannot proceed if arrears are under 225(electric,non‑heating),225 (electric, non‑heating), 125 (gas, non‑heating), or $450 (home heat customers). Utilities must seek permission before disconnecting customers 65+ or those with verified hardship. Confirm details at PUC Winter Rules. (puc.nh.gov)
Apply for bill help and fuel help through your local Community Action Agency. The Electric Assistance Program (EAP) discounts electric bills 5–86% depending on income and family size, and the Fuel Assistance Program (LIHEAP) paid average benefits around 1,284lastwinter(benefitsvary;currentplanyearshowsrangesroughly1,284 last winter (benefits vary; current plan year shows ranges roughly 100–$2,177). Start at Fuel Assistance Program and the CAA directory. According to NH DOE releases (Nov. 26, 2024), FAP opened Dec. 1 and served over 28,000 households the prior season; call to confirm current season dates. (energy.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for “medical protection” if a doctor confirms a life‑threatening condition; request a supervisor, then file a written complaint with PUC Consumer Services and re‑apply for EAP or LIHEAP through your Community Action Agency. (puc.nh.gov)
Table — Utility Shutoff and Bill Help
| Program/Rule | Where to apply or read | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Winter Rules | PUC Winter Disconnection Rules | Extra protections Nov 15–Mar 31; arrearage thresholds apply. (puc.nh.gov) |
| Electric Assistance Program | NH DOE – EAP | Income‑based 5–86% discount for Eversource, Unitil, Liberty, NHEC. (energy.nh.gov) |
| Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) | NH DOE – FAP | Grants paid to vendors; ask about crisis deliveries. (energy.nh.gov) |
Employment, Discrimination, and Workplace Pay Problems
If your employer owes you wages, file a Wage Claim with the NH Department of Labor within 36 months; call 603‑271‑3176 with questions or use the web form on that page. For discrimination, contact the NH Commission for Human Rights at 603‑271‑2767 — you usually have 180 days (sometimes up to 300 days) to file a charge. (nh.gov)
For federal employment discrimination, the EEOC Boston Area Office handles New Hampshire; schedule intake via the EEOC Public Portal or call 1‑800‑669‑4000. If you need interpreter services or disability accommodations in state court, request them early using Interpreter Services and the ADA contact at NH Judicial Branch ADA Notice. (eeoc.gov)
If you were denied unemployment or overpaid benefits, appeal within 14 days through NH Employment Security Appeals, ask for a hearing, and keep filing weekly claims. For help preparing, read the step‑by‑step appeal process at Appeals of Determination and call Appeals at 603‑223‑6140. (nhes.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Re‑file with more documents, ask for an interpreter or postponement if needed, and consider a limited‑scope consult via NH Bar LRS or quick advice on NH Free Legal Answers. For discrimination, file both with the NHCHR and EEOC to preserve rights. (nhbar.org)
Consumer, Debt, and Scams
Report scams to the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1‑888‑468‑4454 (weekdays) and file a complaint with the NH DOJ Consumer Protection & Antitrust Bureau; they often resolve issues without court. If the problem involves a utility, also contact the PUC’s Consumer Services. (doj.nh.gov)
For insurance denials or claim delays, contact the NH Insurance Department Consumer Services at 1‑800‑852‑3416 for a complaint review and guidance on appeals. Keep receipts and letters; upload them with your complaint. (insurance.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: Consider small claims with fee waivers (see How to File for Free), and ask 603 Legal Aid about debt‑collection defenses. For identity theft, report to FTC and ask Consumer Protection for next steps. (courts.nh.gov)
Diverse Communities — Targeted Legal Help and Access
LGBTQ+ single mothers: Get confidential answers through GLAD Answers (800‑455‑GLAD) on parenting rights, discrimination, and name/gender marker updates; see state‑specific protections at GLAD NH Know Your Rights. For school and bullying issues, check 603 Legal Aid LGBTQ Student guide and ask the NH Commission for Human Rights about filing windows. (glad.org)
Single mothers with disabilities or disabled children: Contact the Disability Rights Center–NH at 1‑800‑834‑1721 for access, accommodation, and discrimination issues, and request ADA support at court through Interpreter/ADA services. For special education help, reach NH Family Voices, and ask ServiceLink at 1‑866‑634‑9412 for local disability resources. (drcnh.org)
Veteran single mothers: Call the NH State Office of Veterans Services at 1‑800‑622‑9230 for benefits help and referrals; for legal clinics dedicated to veterans, see Veterans Legal Justice and ask ServiceLink for Veterans for navigation support. If a crisis hits, dial 988, then 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line. (nh.gov)
Immigrant and refugee single moms: Get affordable legal immigration help from the International Institute of New England – Manchester (603‑647‑1500) and Catholic Charities NH Immigration Legal Services (603‑889‑9431). For safety and U/T‑visa screenings after abuse, ask NHCADSV for an advocate and NHLA Fair Housing if housing bias is suspected. (iine.org)
Tribal/Native families and ICWA: If your case involves foster care or adoption, tell the court if your child may be an “Indian child” under the Indian Child Welfare Act. Ask DCYF about ICWA procedures through DCYF Contacts and consult the court’s Self‑Help for guardianship forms; consider national ICWA resources via the Office for Victims of Crime — State Support for referral leads. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Rural North Country moms: For in‑person help with utilities and heat, call Tri‑County Community Action at 1‑888‑648‑2227 and request EAP/LIHEAP appointments; for protection orders, your filing is valid statewide — use Restraining Orders Self‑Help and ask the clerk about remote appearances if weather blocks travel. (energy.nh.gov)
Single fathers: All programs in this guide serve parents regardless of gender. Use 603 Legal Aid for intake, find reduced‑fee counsel via NH Bar LRS, and consult Parenting Plan form to propose a schedule that matches work and school. (603legalaid.org)
Language access/TTY: Courts provide free interpreters; request early through Interpreter Services or call the Information Center at 1‑855‑212‑1234 for assistance in your language. DHHS also offers interpretation and translation; report issues to DHHS Communication Access (603‑271‑5991). If you use TTY/Relay, dial 1‑800‑735‑2964 for state lines like NHCADSV. (courts.nh.gov)
How to Report or Prevent Child Abuse Involving Your Family
New Hampshire requires everyone to report suspected child abuse or neglect immediately to DCYF. Call 603‑271‑6562 or 1‑800‑894‑5533 24/7 and read the steps at Report Child Abuse; the duty to report appears in RSA 169‑C. For independent oversight about DCYF processes, contact the Office of the Child Advocate (603‑271‑7773). (dhhs.nh.gov)
If domestic violence or stalking is present, call NHCADSV and consider a DV or stalking order; courts waive fees and arrange prompt hearings, as explained at Restraining Orders Self‑Help. For victim compensation (medical, counseling), apply through NH DOJ Victims’ Compensation. (courts.nh.gov)
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach DCYF and danger is immediate, dial 911; then follow up with DCYF Intake. If you disagree with a finding that affects your family, call 603 Legal Aid for appeal advice. (dhhs.nh.gov)
Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups
For broad family supports (parenting classes, youth programs, and connections), contact The Upper Room – Family Resource Center in Derry (603‑437‑8477) or browse its services and resources at Upper Room Programs. Statewide referral help is always available at 211 NH for food, housing, and legal links. (urteachers.org)
For immigration legal services, Catholic Charities NH handles family petitions, citizenship, and survivor visas in Manchester and Nashua; for refugees and asylum seekers, International Institute of New England – Manchester provides legal services and case management. For survivor support, keep NHCADSV in your phone. (cc-nh.org)
If you need disability advocacy or special education help, Disability Rights Center‑NH and NH Family Voices can coach you through school meetings and accommodations; ask the court for interpreters via Interpreter Services if you need them. (drcnh.org)
Resources by Region (with Community Action contacts)
| Region | Legal and safety | Energy and housing |
|---|---|---|
| North Country (Coös, Carroll, Grafton) | 603 Legal Aid; NHLA Berlin | Tri‑County CAP (1‑888‑648‑2227); Fuel Assistance (energy.nh.gov) |
| Merrimack & Belknap | NHLA Concord; Courts – Find a Court | CAP Belknap/Merrimack; Electric Assistance Program (puc.nh.gov) |
| Hillsborough (Manchester/Nashua) | NHLA court‑day help in Manchester/Nashua; Lawline monthly | Southern NH Services; HUD NH Eviction Help (nhla.org) |
| Rockingham & Strafford (Seacoast) | NHLA Portsmouth; NHCADSV centers | Rockingham Community Action; Strafford CAP (puc.nh.gov) |
| Cheshire & Sullivan (Monadnock/Upper Valley) | NHLA Claremont/Keene; NH Bar LRS | Southwestern Community Services; Fuel Assistance (puc.nh.gov) |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long after a denial: Many appeals have short deadlines (14 days for unemployment, 30 days for deposit refunds, 180 days for discrimination). Confirm timelines at NHES Appeals, RSA 540‑A:7, and NHCHR How to File. (nhes.nh.gov)
- Skipping the hearing: Judges can default you and issue a writ; read Landlord/Tenant process and arrive early to meet any on‑site NHLA advocate. (courts.nh.gov)
- Not asking for a fee waiver: Filing fees and seminar fees can be waived; use How to Request to Pay a Lower Fee or File for Free and the Application for Waiving Fee. (courts.nh.gov)
Reality Check — Delays, Denials, and Funding Gaps
Hotlines and legal aid lines get slammed in winter and at month‑end. Expect same‑day to next‑day callbacks from 603 Legal Aid during intake windows, and ask for language help if needed. Survivors calling NHCADSV usually get a callback within minutes, but shelter space is limited. For LIHEAP, benefits and crisis deliveries depend on funds and season openings; confirm this year’s dates at Fuel Assistance Program and call ahead. (603legalaid.org)
Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
- Legal intake: 603 Legal Aid — 1‑800‑639‑5290; online 24/7. (603legalaid.org)
- Find a lawyer: NH Bar LRS — 603‑229‑0002; Modest Means — 603‑715‑3290. (nhbar.org)
- Protection orders: Restraining Orders Self‑Help — file free; info line 1‑855‑212‑1234. (courts.nh.gov)
- Child support: Apply with BCSS; Guidelines & Calculator. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Utility shutoff: PUC Winter Rules; EAP; CAA list. (puc.nh.gov)
Printable Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)
- Photo ID and proof of address: state ID, lease, or utility bill; see NH Courts Self‑Help for what clerks accept. (courts.nh.gov)
- Income proof: last 4–6 weeks of pay stubs, benefits letters for LIHEAP/EAP and fee waivers; ask your Community Action Agency what else is needed. (energy.nh.gov)
- Court forms: Parenting Plan, Financial Affidavit, or Stalking Petition as needed. (courts.nh.gov)
- Evidence packets: texts, emails, photos, police reports for Restraining Orders; repair bills and notices for Eviction. (courts.nh.gov)
- Fee waiver: How to File for Free; attach financial statement where required. (courts.nh.gov)
If Your Application Gets Denied (Troubleshooting)
- Ask why in writing: Use the agency’s appeal route. For child support orders or parenting changes, file a motion at NH Courts; for unemployment, use NHES Appeals within 14 days. (nhes.nh.gov)
- Fix and re‑apply: Add missing documents; for LIHEAP/EAP, ask your Community Action Agency what you lacked. For discrimination cases, file with NHCHR before you lose the 180‑day window. (puc.nh.gov)
- Get advice quickly: Book 603 Legal Aid, and if you can pay a reduced rate, try NH Bar Modest Means. (603legalaid.org)
County‑Specific Variations You Should Know
- Manchester & Nashua courts: On many eviction days, NHLA has advocates in the hallway to negotiate or advise before your case is called — ask security or the clerk when you arrive. The court process and forms are posted at Landlord/Tenant – District Division. (nhla.org)
- North Country energy help: Tri‑County CAP uses a single intake line (1‑888‑648‑2227) for Coös, Carroll, and Grafton; call early in heating season for the fastest appointment. State program rules are posted at EAP. (energy.nh.gov)
FAQs (New Hampshire — 2025)
- How fast can I get a temporary protective order: Same day in many courts if a judge finds immediate danger; hearings on temporary orders can be held within 3–5 business days if the defendant requests, and a full hearing must occur within 30 days of filing or 10 days after service. See RSA 173‑B and Orders Self‑Help. (gc.nh.gov)
- What if I can’t afford filing fees for divorce or parenting: Ask the court to waive fees; use How to File for Free and the Application for Waiving Fee; attach your Financial Affidavit. (courts.nh.gov)
- How are NH child support amounts set: The DHHS Guidelines & Calculator update every April 1; percentages of combined net income are listed in RSA 458‑C:3. Bring a printout to court. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- Can my power be shut off in winter: Yes, but stricter rules apply Nov 15–Mar 31; for example, disconnections are limited if arrears are below specified amounts, and special protections apply for elderly and hardship households. Read PUC Winter Rules and ask for a payment plan. (puc.nh.gov)
- What if my landlord kept my deposit: Landlords must return deposits (plus any interest if held a year+) within 30 days with an itemized list. See RSA 540‑A:7 and ask 603 Legal Aid about small claims if they don’t comply. (gc.nh.gov)
- Where do I report discrimination (work or housing): Start at the NH Commission for Human Rights (603‑271‑2767) within 180 days; for employment, you may also file with the EEOC. For housing bias, call the NHLA Fair Housing Project (1‑800‑921‑1115). (nh.gov)
- Who helps with benefits appeals (Medicaid/SNAP/child care): Get advice from 603 Legal Aid; NHLA also handles some benefits cases. For court basics, use Self‑Help. (nhla.org)
- How do I find the right court and hours: Use Contact a Court and call 1‑855‑212‑1234; general court hours are listed on Your Visit. (courts.nh.gov)
- Is there monthly free legal advice by phone: Yes — Lawline runs the second Wednesday from 6–8 pm at 1‑800‑868‑1212; you can also submit online at NH Free Legal Answers. (courts.nh.gov)
- How do I get help if I can’t use English well or I’m Deaf/Hard of Hearing: Courts provide interpreters at no cost; request through Interpreter Services, and use Relay NH 1‑800‑735‑2964 for hotlines like NHCADSV or the Victims’ Compensation Program. (courts.nh.gov)
Tables — Fast Lookups You Can Screenshot
Table A — Core Legal and Safety Contacts
| Service | Phone | Link |
|---|---|---|
| 603 Legal Aid (intake) | 1‑800‑639‑5290 | 603 Legal Aid – Apply (603legalaid.org) |
| NH Legal Assistance (civil) | 1‑800‑562‑3174 | NHLA Contact (nhla.org) |
| DV hotline (24/7) | 1‑866‑644‑3574 | NHCADSV (nhcadsv.org) |
| Sexual assault hotline (24/7) | 1‑800‑277‑5570 | NHCADSV (nhcadsv.org) |
| Court info center | 1‑855‑212‑1234 | NH Courts Self‑Help (courts.nh.gov) |
Table B — Energy and Utility Help
| Program | Who qualifies | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Assistance (EAP) | Utility customers meeting income limits | NH DOE – EAP (energy.nh.gov) |
| Fuel Assistance (LIHEAP) | NH residents with energy burdens under 60% SMI | NH DOE – FAP; local CAA list (energy.nh.gov) |
| Winter Rules | All residential customers | PUC Winter Rules (puc.nh.gov) |
Table C — Family Law Essentials
| Item | Link | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Parenting Plan (NHJB‑2064‑F) | Parenting Plan | Required in custody/divorce cases. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Child Impact Program | CIP Info | 4‑hour class; fee waivers available. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Child Support Calculator | Guidelines Calculator | Updated each April 1. (dhhs.nh.gov) |
Table D — Where to Report and Appeal
| Issue | Agency | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Wage theft | NH Dept. of Labor | Wage Claim (603‑271‑3176) (nh.gov) |
| Discrimination | NHCHR | How to File (603‑271‑2767) (nh.gov) |
| Unemployment denial | NHES Appeals | Appeals (603‑223‑6140) (nhes.nh.gov) |
Table E — Housing and Deposits
| Topic | Link | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Eviction notice rules | RSA 540:3 | 30‑day vs 7‑day rules. (gc.nh.gov) |
| Court process | Landlord/Tenant – District Division | Forms, fees, checklists. (courts.nh.gov) |
| Security deposit refunds | RSA 540‑A:7 | 30‑day return with itemized list. (gc.nh.gov) |
Spanish Summary / Resumen en español
Esta guía ofrece atajos confiables para ayuda legal en New Hampshire. Para asesoría legal civil inicial, llame a 1‑800‑639‑5290 y solicite 603 Legal Aid o complete la solicitud en línea. Para órdenes de protección por violencia doméstica o acoso, use Ayuda de las Cortes o llame al centro de información de las cortes 1‑855‑212‑1234. Si enfrenta un corte de luz/gas, revise las Reglas de invierno y pida Electric Assistance Program o Fuel Assistance Program por medio de su agencia comunitaria local. Si necesita apoyo por violencia, llame al 1‑866‑644‑3574 (NHCADSV). Esta traducción fue creada con herramientas de IA; confirme siempre con las páginas oficiales.
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.
Sources we relied on for this New Hampshire‑specific edition:
- New Hampshire Judicial Branch — Self‑Help and Family Division Forms. (courts.nh.gov)
- 603 Legal Aid and NH Legal Assistance (housing, safety, benefits). (603legalaid.org)
- NH DHHS Child Support (Guidelines & Apply); RSA 458‑C:3. (dhhs.nh.gov)
- NH PUC Winter Rules; NH DOE — EAP & FAP. (puc.nh.gov)
- NHCADSV hotlines and centers; Orders of Protection. (nhcadsv.org)
- NHCHR — How to File; EEOC Boston. (nh.gov)
Last verified September 2025, next review January 2026.
This guide follows our Editorial Standards using official sources, updated regularly. We are not a government agency and cannot guarantee individual outcomes. Please email info@asinglemother.org with corrections — we respond within 72 hours.
Disclaimer
This content is legal information, not legal advice. Laws and benefit rules change. Always confirm current rules with the official agency or a qualified attorney. For emergencies, dial 911; for statewide social services, dial 211 NH.
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- 🌾 Rural Single Mothers Assistance
- ♿ Disabled Single Mothers Assistance
- 🎖️ Veteran Single Mothers Benefits
- 🦷 Dental Care Assistance
- 🎓 Education Grants
- 📊 EITC and Tax Credits
- 🍎 SNAP and Food Assistance
- 🔧 Job Training
- 🧠 Mental Health Resources
- 🚗 Transportation Assistance
- 💼 Job Loss Support & Unemployment
- ⚡ Utility Assistance
- 🥛 WIC Benefits
- 🏦 TANF Assistance
- 🏠 Housing Assistance
- 👶 Childcare Assistance
- 🏥 Healthcare Assistance
- 🚨 Emergency Assistance
- 🤝 Community Support
- 🎯 Disability & Special Needs Support
- 🛋️ Free Furniture & Household Items
- 🏫 Afterschool & Summer Programs
- 🍼 Free Baby Gear & Children's Items
- 🎒 Free School Supplies & Backpacks
- 🏡 Home Buyer Down Payment Grants
- 🤱 Postpartum Health & Maternity Support
- 👩💼 Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection
- 💼 Business Grants & Assistance
- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
