Talk Justice: Episode Sixty

richardsons@lsc.gov — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:59:15 +0000

Talk Justice: Episode Sixty richardsons@lsc.gov Wed, 06/21/2023 - 11:59

What is Legal Aid?

admin — Mon, 15 Feb 2021 19:25:32 +0000

What is Legal Aid? admin Mon, 02/15/2021 - 14:25

Legal Aid is free legal assistance provided to people who cannot afford an attorney in civil matters. Although Americans have a right to an attorney when accused of a crime, they do not have a right to a lawyer when facing civil issues.

Ensuring Equal Access to Justice

For millions of Americans, navigating the legal system can be overwhelming – especially for those who cannot afford an attorney. Civil legal aid seeks to ensure that all individuals, regardless of financial status, have access to legal assistance in critical civil matters that affect their safety, stability and well-being.

Since it was established by Congress in 1974, LSC has been the largest funder of civil legal aid programs in the United States, distributing federal grants to nonprofit organizations that provide free legal assistance to low-income individuals and families.

How We Work

LSC is a grant-making organization, distributing nearly 94% of its congressional appropriation to nonprofit legal aid organizations. LSC funds 130 independent legal aid organizations that serve low-income individuals in every district in every U.S. state and territory.

With more than 900 offices nationwide, these organizations provide direct legal assistance, legal education and self-help resources to ensure access to justice for those in need.

How Legal Aid Helps

LSC-funded legal aid organizations assist individuals and families navigate critical and complex civil legal matters, including:

Housing
Family
Disaster Recovery
Employment & Income Stability
Consumer Rights & Financial Security

Preventing wrongful evictions or foreclosures and ensuring families remain in stable housing
Addressing unsafe or unhealthy living conditions
Protecting tenant and homeowner rights and ensuring fair housing protections are enforced

Securing protective orders for survivors of domestic violence
Assisting with child custody, child support, and divorce proceedings
Advocating for foster youth to ensure their rights are protected

Helping survivors of natural disasters access FEMA aid and file insurance claims
Resolving title and documentation issues that prevent recovery assistance
Protecting homeowners and renters from fraudulent recovery schemes
Helping survivors obtain duplicate paperwork like driver’s licenses and birth certificates to enable them to rebuild their lives

Learn More ��˶�� Disaster Legal Services

Securing rightful wages and benefits
Ensuring access to Veterans, disability and Social Security benefits
Helping those with sealable criminal records get a fresh start through expungement

Fighting fraud, predatory lending, and unfair debt collection
Assisting with bankruptcy and financial disputes
Preventing wrongful repossessions

Why Legal Aid Matters

Legal aid not only protects individuals, but also strengthens communities by:

Reducing Homelessness – Keeping families housed and decreasing reliance on emergency shelters and public assistance programs

Supporting Financial Independence – Helping individuals gain employment and financial independence

Enhancing Public Safety – Providing legal protections for survivors of domestic violence and other vulnerable populations

Reducing Public Costs – Ensuring access to healthcare, disability benefits, and other essential services, reducing emergency medical and social service needs

Who We Help

LSC-funded legal aid programs serve individuals and families who meet income eligibility requirements – generally, 125% or below the federal poverty guidelines. This includes:

Seniors
Veterans and military families
Domestic violence survivors
People with disabilities
Families and individuals facing financial hardships

Learn More ��˶�� Grantees Serving Your Community

Find Legal Help

If you or someone you know needs legal assistance, locate an LSC-funded program in your area.

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Find Legal Help

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