
What is Legal Aid?
Legal Aid helps to make the justice system fair and accessible to all, especially the vulnerable in our society by providing free, comprehensive, civil legal aid.
Our mission since 1908 has been to resolve serious legal problems of low-income people, to promote economic and family stability and to reduce poverty through effective legal assistance.
We work with individuals to achieve case-by-case problem resolution, and use legal advocacy to improve large systems. To assist as many people as possible, we’ve created innovative programs with high-impact strategies in partnership with local nonprofits serving those living in poverty. Our collaborative community connected approach is recognized as a “best practice” in yielding lasting change moving people towards economic self-sufficiency.


VLP gains a Brazilian’s legal perspective
Renata Xavier is the new Summer Law Clerk for the Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP). In her role, Renata will assist Elizabeth Zak, VLP Managing Attorney, to manage client contacts and conduct legal research. Where are you from? I grew up in the Brazilian countryside, but moved to Sao Paolo for a better opportunity. Sao Paolo is a huge city; compared to a U.S. city, it’s like L.A. Where did you go to school?……
Find out more about VLP gains a Brazilian’s legal perspective

Legal Aid Advocates for Kinship Caregivers
As a “Kinship Caregiver”, you may have questions about your rights, the rights of the child, and how best to meet the child’s needs. For example, how do you get them enrolled in school? How do you make sure they have medical coverage? What do you need to do to formalize custody? Are they eligible for public benefits?
Legal Aid’s Kinship Care team can answer your questions about custody, guardianship, school enrollment, benefits and medical…
Find out more about Legal Aid Advocates for Kinship Caregivers