The Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake: A Brief Overview
The Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City has been at the forefront of public interest law since its origin as the "Salt Lake Legal Aid Society" in 1912. Originally founded by Clara Dickson with the purpose of providing legal services to the economically disadvantaged, the Legal Aid Society has since become a key legal resource in Salt Lake County. Today, under its new name, "Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City" the organization continues to offer a free legal helpline, thereby providing access to high-quality legal representation in the areas of family law, domestic violence law, and equitable aid. Prior to the creation of the Society individuals seeking legal aid would visit the 1st floor of the ZCMI building on Main Street in Salt Lake City, Utah; here they would be met by a volunteer local attorney who has agreed to assist in providing free legal representation. From this humble start, the Society would grow to develop its first "full service" legal aid office in 1940, at its current location on 1001 E 50 S, Salt Lake City. By 2008, the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City has grown to accommodate a total of 8 offices, encompassing an additional 6 locations throughout Utah and Nevada. The Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City has not only assisted with legal representation, but also with legal education . Since its inception, the Society has maintained its commitment to the legacy of community justice, by adhering itself to the goal of providing access to justice for those in need.
Most recently, the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City launched the "Domestic Violence Project". This project provides free legal advice, information and representation, to those victims of domestic violence in need of assistance. The Domestic Violence Project is composed of professionals working in the courts, legal aid, and state agencies, who have come together in an approach known as the "collaboration model", which aims to hold offenders accountable in a manner sensitive to the needs of victims. The project hopes to deliver free legal services while also providing self-help groups and community training programs. The Society’s outreaches are also somewhat unique, as they provide services outside of Salt Lake County, currently with focuses in Northern Utah—specifically Box Elder, Weber, and Davis Counties. Indeed, the mission and goals of the Salt Lake Legal Aid Society are significant because they demonstrate the Society’s strict adherence to both community service and justice. The Society’s activities have immensely benefited both the economic and social well-being of the citizens in Salt Lake County and beyond, allowing them to lead safer and more fulfilling lives in the Utah community.
Services Provided by The Legal Aid Society
The Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City offers a diverse array of services ranging from family law assistance to help with housing issues, and even immigration support. For those whom justice may be all too often out of reach, the organization provides a gateway to help.
The Salt Lake City branch of the Legal Aid Society’s mission is to provide "free legal services to people living in Utah who cannot afford an attorney." The core practice areas of the organization as a whole include family law, public benefits, housing, and consumer rights. In Salt Lake City, the legal services they offer extend to the following practice areas:
In family law, attorneys assist in domestic cases such as divorce, child custody, child support enforcement, and adoptions. Their assistance in the family law realm also includes direct assistance to self-represented litigants. They even have a short presentation on their website that teaches visitors how to fill out motions and responses to motions, which can aid countless self-represented litigants that visit the site.
As part of their housing practice, the Legal Aid Society assists clients in dealing with eviction, housing conditions, obtaining housing subsidies, and navigating foreclosures. As a reminder of the balance of powers doctrine, however, the organization does not handle landlord-tenant matters.
For immigration, they assist clients with applications for visas, citizenship, asylum, and refugee resettlement. They do not assist with deportation matters, but do refer those clients to partners who can. However, their website has a highly useful citizenship quiz which allows those interested in becoming naturalized citizens to test their knowledge of the process.
For more information on the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City check out their website, www.legalaidsocietyofsaltlake.org.
Who Qualifies for Legal Aid?
The Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City only represents individuals and families who are low income. In fact, to be eligible for free legal assistance at the society, applicants must not have an income more than 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. To calculate, 125% of the 2012 federal poverty guidelines for a household of two people is $23,965. For a family of four, the amount is $36,325. These numbers increase roughly $6,000 for each additional family member.
Those who do not qualify based on income are still able to receive legal assistance if their case is in a specialized program. Currently, special programs include family law cases, Medicaid cases, and divorces for domestic violence victims.
The Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City only provides services to Salt Lake City residents. Although there are no residency requirements for specialized programs, applicants for other services must be hit within Salt Lake County or in its six neighboring counties.
How to Apply for Legal Aid
The process of applying for legal assistance through the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City is straightforward, but requires careful attention to detail to ensure that you submit all of the necessary documentation and information.
The first step in applying for legal assistance is to gather all relevant financial and legal documents, including your tax returns, a list of monthly expenses, proof of income, and any documents relating to the legal issue for which you require assistance. You will also need to complete an application form, which can typically be found on the organization’s website or can be obtained by contacting them directly.
Once you have all your information and documentation prepared, the next step is to schedule an appointment to meet with an attorney or a legal aid professional. This can usually be done by phone or by visiting the organization in person. During the initial appointment, your situation will be assessed, and you’ll be advised of the next steps to take and whether the Legal Aid Society can provide assistance for your legal issue.
It’s important to keep in mind that as a nonprofit organization, the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City may have limited resources and staff available to assist with legal issues. To speed up the processing of your application, ensure you provide all requested information and documentation in a timely manner. Also, follow up with the organization if you have not been contacted within a reasonable time frame after submitting your application.
By following these steps, you can make the application process smoother in obtaining the legal assistance you need through the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City.
Client Successes and Reviews
As we explore the transformative impact of the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City, it’s important to hear from the clients who have walked through the doors of this invaluable organization. Their anecdotes and experiences bring to life the difference that dedicated legal aid advocates can make in the community.
One success story involves Mary, a single mother of two who sought legal aid after facing housing insecurity. "I was out of work and couldn’t afford my rent. The anxiety was unbearable, and my children were scared," she recalls. Mary was connected with an attorney at the Legal Aid Society who was dedicated to helping her navigate her housing issue. "The service I received was free and incredibly professional," she says. "I never would have been able to afford this otherwise." In time, Mary secured her apartment and now has the security and stability she needs to support her family.
Another client, John, faced a different but equally challenging dilemma. After being falsely accused of a crime, he was informed that he would have to pay for his legal defense. "I was terrified," admits John. "I needed a specialist, someone who had been in my shoes before . " John was represented by a volunteer lawyer from the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City. John now calls him an "Angel." "They are worth their weight in gold," says John, "and I’ll forever be grateful." With proper representation, John was acquitted of all charges.
Other stories reflect the time-consuming and exhausting process that the free legal aid lawyers help mitigate. "I recommend Legal Aid to everyone," insists Anna, "It doesn’t matter how small you think your problem is—you should seek their advice anyway." Anna sought a divorce, but found herself overwhelmed by the process. "There were so many questions, forms, and legal terms I had no idea how to navigate." Through the Legal Aid Society’s guidance, the process became much clearer. And on the other side of all the legal troubles, Anna says, "I feel empowered and more prepared for future challenges that may come my way."
These case studies represent just a fraction of what the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City accomplishes. The testimonials from these three clients indicate that the benefits of their work are immeasurable. They showcase the compassionate and skilled legal support that transforms the lives of those who seek help.
Local Collaborations and Community Support
Throughout its storied history, the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City has recognized the power of collaboration and the strength that comes from working together with like-minded organizations and individuals. The society’s partner organizations play a vital role in amplifying its impact, providing valuable resources, expertise, and a broader reach into the community it serves.
In the legal arena, the society collaborates with law firms, volunteer attorneys, and legal professionals who bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the organization. Volunteer attorneys work alongside staff to provide pro bono legal assistance and representation to clients, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they have access to quality legal support. Furthermore, by engaging pro bono attorneys, the society helps to build a network of legal professionals who are dedicated to ensuring access to justice for those who would otherwise be unable to afford legal representation.
The society is also involved in partnerships with various nonprofit organizations that share a common goal of advancing social justice and serving vulnerable populations. Collaborations with organizations dedicated to areas such as domestic violence prevention, housing, and health care help to ensure that clients receive not only the legal support they need but also holistic services that address the multifaceted challenges they face. Together, these partner organizations create a comprehensive community support network that empowers clients to overcome their legal issues and move toward a brighter, more stable future.
Community involvement is at the heart of the Legal Aid Society’s mission. By participating in outreach programs, clinics, and workshops, the society actively works to educate the community about the law, empowering individuals with the information they need to navigate their legal rights and responsibilities. Additionally, by making its presence known in the community through partnerships and public events, the society fosters trust and awareness about the services it provides, encouraging those who may need legal assistance to seek help.
Through its collaborations and community involvement, the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City significantly enhances its ability to achieve its mission of providing equal access to justice. It not only strengthens the community it serves but also plays a crucial role in promoting the values of fairness, equality, and justice for all.
Looking to the Future: Upcoming Goals and Initiatives
In the coming years, the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City has set ambitious goals to further its mission of providing equal access to justice for all. Building on its existing services, the organization plans to expand its reach and impact through innovative approaches and strategic partnerships.
One of the key future goals of the Legal Aid Society is to develop targeted programs that address the specific legal needs of vulnerable populations within the community. This includes veterans, the elderly, and low-income families. By focusing on the unique challenges faced by these groups, the Society will be better equipped to provide the tailored legal support they require.
Future projects involve the Society increasing its collaborations with local organizations and government agencies to better serve the community. These collaborations will enhance the Society’s ability to provide comprehensive resources and integrate its services with existing support systems. Partnerships with healthcare providers, educational institutions, and social services organizations will create a holistic approach to legal aid that encompasses clients’ broader needs.
The Legal Aid Society also plans to expand its pro bono program, which leverages the expertise of local attorneys who volunteer their time and skills to assist clients in need. By encouraging more legal professionals to donate their time, the Society hopes to strengthen its capacity to handle an increased influx of clients. Moreover, by offering additional training and resources to its volunteers, the Society aims to provide robust support for any new or inexperienced lawyers.
In the coming years, the Legal Aid Society will also focus on increasing community awareness of the legal resources available to them. Programs aimed at educating the public about their rights and providing access to necessary legal services are vital to reducing barriers and promoting equal access to justice.
In conclusion, the future for the Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City is bright, as it continues to look for new ways to address the legal needs of the community. By expanding its services, strengthening its partnerships, and implementing strategic developments, the Society will undoubtedly play a critical role in fostering a fair and just society in the years to come.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Legal Aid Society of Salt Lake City is a terminally important tool to find much needed legal assistance within the state. I have been impressed by the charitable devotion of the Society’s staff as well as that of their competent volunteer attorneys. It is heartening to know that there are professionals immersed in their own demanding practices who donate their time and considerable talents to aid those in need.
While no one can predict the future and future needs , we cannot foresee our arrival at a time when low and moderate income people are not going to need the services provided by the Society. They desperately need the help of more money and volunteers to serve their clients, and I recommend to all our peers for both outside funding and volunteer attorneys to get involved. The Legal Aid Society is a worthwhile organization, and Salt Lake City is fortunate to have such a resource.