Unemployment Law Project - Seattle Office

Contact Information

Name: Unemployment Law Project - Seattle Office
Address: 1904 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA - 98101
Phone: (206) 441-9178
Fax: (206) 727-4819

Service Information

The Unemployment Law Project provides low-cost representation and free advice and counsel to people in Washington State who have been denied unemployment benefits or whose award of benefits is being challenged. focus and direction during the hearing and ensure that your voice is heard. Also, having a seasoned representative beside you can be invaluable in accessing and navigating the legal system in a time of stress and need.

If you have been denied unemployment benefits, you must first file an appeal with the state Employment Security Department (ESD) before you contact us. Simply write "I disagree with the decision, and would like a hearing." There is no need to explain the reasons why you disagree as that will be discussed in the hearing. If your appeal is late, explain why. But being sure to get the appeal filed within 30 days will make the process much easier.

If you have been denied unemployment benefits and have filed an appeal, your case will be sent to the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).  This is the office that will hold your hearing by phone. Contact them and request that they send your file to the Unemployment Law Project.  The OAHs phone number should be 1-800-366-0955. The OAH offices have all of our contact information and will send us your file as soon as they are able. Contact us a few days later to see if we have received your file. If we have, we will set up a telephone intake interview to talk with you about your case.

If you have been denied unemployment benefits and already have a hearing date,  look at the top of the page of the "Notice of Hearing." You will see the address and phone number for the Office of Administrative Hearings. Immediately call that number and request that they send your file to the Unemployment Law Project. The Offices of Administrative Hearings has all of our contact information and will send your file as soon as they are able. Call us the following day after you make this request to see if we have received your file. If we have, we will set up an intake interview to talk with you about your case. If you have a hearing date within 24 hours of contacting us, we may not be able to represent you, but we will work with you to set up an appointment for you to speak with on of our representatives through our helpline.

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm


Mission Statement: The Unemployment Law Project is a statewide, not-for-profit law firm that is established to provide advice, education, advocacy, services, and representation to unemployed workers, to defend the rights and benefits of workers and unemployed people, to advise workers regarding benefits, and to prevent economic insecurity among Washington’s working population.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is legal aid?

Legal aid is free or low-cost legal advice and assistance given to those who cannot afford the services of an attorney.

2. Who is eligible for legal aid?

The eligibility requirements for legal aid vary depending on the country or state, but generally, those who have limited income and cannot afford the services of a lawyer are eligible for legal aid.

3. How can I apply for legal aid?

To apply for legal aid, you can either visit your local legal aid office or access their website to fill out an application form. You will be required to provide information on your income and assets, as well as the legal issue you need assistance with.

4. What types of legal issues are covered by legal aid?

Legal aid covers a wide range of legal issues, including family law, criminal law, employment law, housing, consumer law, and immigration law.

5. Can I choose my lawyer with legal aid?

In some cases, you may be able to choose your lawyer with legal aid. However, in most cases, the lawyer assigned to you by legal aid will depend on their availability and expertise in the area of law your case involves.

6. How much does legal aid cost?

Legal aid is either free or offered at a reduced cost, depending on your income and assets.

7. What documents do I need to provide for legal aid?

When applying for legal aid, you will need to provide proof of your income and assets, such as bank statements, tax returns, and proof of benefits.

8. Is legal aid available for international cases?

Legal aid is only available for cases that fall within the jurisdiction of the country or state offering legal aid services.

9. Can I appeal a decision made by legal aid?

If you are not satisfied with the decision made by legal aid, you may have the right to appeal the decision. This may involve filling out an appeal form or attending a hearing.

10. How can I find a legal aid office in my area?

You can find a legal aid office in your area by searching online or contacting your local bar association.