What is Civil Legal Aid?

Civil legal problems are common – they include things like divorce, child custody, foreclosure, eviction, bankruptcy, immigration, civil rights and more. Unlike criminal cases, there is no right to an attorney in the vast majority of civil cases, meaning people who cannot afford an attorney could be left to handle these complicated issues on their own.

Civil legal aid helps ensure fairness in the justice system. MLSC grantees provide a variety of services, ranging from offering self-help resources to providing an attorney for full representation in court. Their vital work ensures Marylanders have access to justice, regardless of the amount of money they have. The legal system can be confusing – knowing your rights and having an advocate can make a tremendous difference.

Your support of civil legal aid has a positive impact across Maryland.