Programs

There are over 875,000 low-income individuals residing in 115 counties in Missouri.  Many of these Missourians struggle to keep their jobs, stay in their homes or provide basic necessities for their families.  Many are unable to afford an attorney when they have legal problems.  Fortunately, they can turn to one of the Missouri legal aid programs to protect their livelihoods, their health, and their families.  Through the legal aid programs in Missouri, low-income and disadvantaged Missourians have access to court in order to protect their legitimate legal interests.

There are four legal aid programs in Missouri, each servicing a portion of the counties in the state. The four programs are Legal Services of Eastern Missouri, Legal Aid of Western Missouri, Legal Services of Southern Missouri and Mid-Missouri Legal Services.  (See the attachment at the bottom of this page for a printable map in Adobe format showing each program's name and service area) 

Each legal aid program is an independent nonprofit corporation that provides legal assistance to the low-income and disadvantaged in Missouri.  The programs help thousands of low-income individuals, children, families, seniors, and veterans throughout the state each year.  Legal aid programs in Missouri provide legal assistance with certain civil matters only.  We are unable to assist with criminal matters due to funding source rules and regulations.

Generally, legal aid programs in Missouri can help family households whose annual incomes are at or below 125% of the federal poverty guidelines.  However, there are many special programs and funding available to assist individuals who are over the basic income guidelines.  We attempt to ensure that eligible individuals will not have to navigate the legal system on their own.

If you have a legal problem and are unsure if you qualify for legal aid, please go to the Offices page of this site to find out how to apply for legal aid.