Free • Confidential • 10 languages

Charged or arrested? You have rights.

GuardLine Defense helps new immigrants in the United States get matched with a criminal defense attorney — for free, in your language. We are not a law firm. We help you find one.

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If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

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Free for you

You never pay GuardLine Defense. We are not paid a percentage of any attorney's fees.

In your language

Help in 10 languages, written for people new to the U.S. legal system.

Confidential

Your request is private. Your immigration status does not change your right to a defense.

How GuardLine Defense works

Tell us what happened

Answer a few quick questions in your language. It is free and confidential.

We match you

We connect you with an independent criminal defense attorney who handles your kind of case.

Talk it through

Have a free first conversation. No obligation. You decide what happens next.

See the full process →

Get help by your situation

Whatever you are facing, there is a defense attorney who handles it. Start here.

Arrested? First-24-Hours Help & Attorney Matching

Just arrested or detained? Learn your rights in the first 24 hours and get matched with a criminal defense attorney fast — free, confidential, in your language.

Felony Charge Defense

Facing a felony charge in the U.S.? Understand what a felony means, the stakes, and get connected with a felony defense attorney — free and in your language.

Misdemeanor Defense

A misdemeanor is still serious — it can affect your record, job, and immigration status. Learn your options and get matched with a defense attorney for free.

DUI / DWI Defense

Charged with DUI or DWI? Penalties and immigration consequences are serious. Understand the process and get matched with a DUI defense attorney — free.

Domestic Violence Charge Defense

A domestic violence charge can carry jail time and immigration consequences. Learn your rights and get matched with a defense attorney — free and confidential.

Get matched in minutes

You do not have to face the U.S. legal system alone, and you do not have to speak perfect English. Tell us what happened and we will work to connect you with the right defense attorney — free and confidential.

✓Free — you never pay us
✓Confidential — your status stays private
✓Available in 10 languages

Request a free consultation

Free, confidential, no obligation. We are not a law firm.

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GuardLine Defense is a free attorney-matching and information service. We are not a law firm, we do not provide legal advice, and using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Attorney advertising. We connect people with independent attorneys; we do not charge you and we are not paid a percentage of any attorney's fees. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

Know your rights

Plain-language guides written for people new to the U.S. system.

Your Rights After an Arrest in the U.S.

Know your rights the moment you are arrested in the United States — the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and what to say (and not say). In plain language.

What Happens After You Are Arrested

Step by step: booking, bail, arraignment, and your first court date. Know what comes next so you are not caught off guard. Plain-language guide for immigrants.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

Real cost ranges for a criminal defense lawyer in the U.S. — flat fees, what's included, public defenders, and how to find help you can afford. In your language.

Immigration Consequences of a Criminal Charge

How a criminal charge or conviction can affect your visa, green card, or status — and why you need a defense lawyer who understands immigration. Plain language.

Bail and Bond in the U.S., Explained

How bail works, what a bail bond costs, and how to get out of jail while your case is pending. Clear answers for people new to the U.S. system.

If the Police Stop or Question You

What to do — and what not to do — if police stop, question, or come to your home, whatever your immigration status. Know your rights before it happens.

All guides →