Justice. Equal Justice. 

If you do not know your legal rights or how to enforce your rights, and cannot afford an attorney, you may still receive equal justice.

Legal Services of Northwest Minnesota (LSNM) provides equal justice as the only free civil legal aid located in northwest Minnesota.

What does that mean?
When someone faces abuse by a partner, eviction from their home, medical issues rendering them unable to work, or legal papers they do not understand and cannot afford to hire an attorney, they may call LSNM.

With offices in Alexandria, Bemidji, and Moorhead, each person eligible for legal aid may talk with a legal advocate/attorney. Depending on the nature of the issue, LSNM may provide general advice, assist in drafting forms, engage in negotiation or litigation, and/or represent at an administrative law or district court hearing.

To understand the difference LSNM makes, read Trenton’s story…

Imagine experiencing the grief and pain of being parentless, and then being rejected by a new school. With both his dad and mom deceased, and no family willing to keep him, Trenton* moved to a new community and stayed with a family friend. The family friend tried to enroll Trenton in school. The school refused to do so without the signature of a legal guardian. He already missed a week of school before coming to LSNM for help. A LSNM attorney called the school that same day and explained the federal law that required them to allow Trenton to enroll in school immediately. She asked that Trenton be allowed to start school the next day. Trenton did start school the next day with a backpack filled with school supplies from the local United Way. Trenton’s grateful to be back in school where he can learn, make new friends, and create a new normal.  

*Client name changed. 

LSNM’s Alexandria, Bemidji, and Moorhead offices are open 8a.m.to 4:30p.m.* Monday through Friday, and the Alexandria Office is also open on Tuesdays until 6:30p.m.