Civil legal aid programs ensure justice for all. The federal Legal Services Corporation helps fund Minnesota's civil legal aid programs and, through that funding, plays a critical role in leveraging the important work of pro bono attorneys.   

"What [LSC] has been committed to for years has nothing to do with party lines or partisanship. It has everything to do with our shared goal that everyone in this country has the right to equal and fair  representation under the law." - Congressman Tom Emmer (R - MN 6th District)

LSC helps thousands of Minnesotans access legal help when they face critical issues like domestic violence, unlawful eviction from their homes, and the unjust denial of essential services for veterans, the disabled, and seniors.

Rural areas are hardest hit.  It is particularly difficult to access critical legal assistance in rural areas of our state. Five Minnesota civil legal aid programs rely on LSC funding for a significant part of their resources, and many of those programs are located outside of the metro area.

Funding civil legal aid programs makes economic sense. Everyone benefits when we are able to keep our most vulnerable residents housed, safe, and stable. In 2015 alone, civil legal aid programs in Minnesota served 47,000 individuals and families. A 2016 economic impact report by the  Minnesota Legal Services Coalition and Minnesota State Bar Association showed that for every dollar invested in civil legal aid programs in Minnesota, the return on investment is $3.94.

We can't provide pro bono legal service without civil legal aid programs. LSC-funded civil legal aid programs serve many clients through leveraging pro bono attorney resources with the private bar.  Private attorneys rely on civil legal aid programs for training, support, and volunteer opportunities. 

Current LSC funding does not meet needs of Minnesota communities. Some civil legal aid programs in our state are forced to turn away 55% of eligible callers due to a lack of resources.