For over sixty years, the Montana Legal Services Association has helped ensure fairness for all in Montana’s justice system by providing civil, non-criminal legal services to low income Montanans living in all 56 Montana counties and on all Tribal Reservations.
As a private, nonprofit law firm, MLSA provides non-criminal legal information, advice, and representation to thousands of Montanans each year. MLSA’s services help fight scams on seniors, assist veterans who have been denied their earned benefits, help people escape abusive relationships, and represent families living in unsafe housing conditions.
“Justice for All” is our shared ideal. Every year, millions walk under these words, engraved into the United States Supreme Court building. Every day, millions of schoolchildren pledge their allegiance to a republic “with liberty and justice for all.” And on countless TV shows, you hear the words, “If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you.”
There is no right to an attorney for people facing non-criminal legal problems. For many people, especially those with limited incomes, the high cost of legal assistance can prevent them from obtaining even the most basic access to our court systems.
That’s why MLSA works to provide civil legal aid to low income individuals living throughout Montana – to ensure that equal justice for all is a reality for all Montanans, and not just for those who can afford it.
"Equal justice for all is a reality for all Montanans, not just for those who can afford it."
Demand for civil legal aid in Montana far outstrips the supply. For every client MLSA takes, it is unable to serve another due to lack of resources. But with critical support, we create real, lasting change for Montanans.
Learn MoreEvery year, MLSA helps nearly 10,000 clients and their family members access justice.
In 2023, 99% of MLSA clients increased their knowledge of their legal rights.
In 2023, MLSA's services resulted in over $4.4 million in direct financial benefit.
We assist individuals and families facing civil legal issues. Our services focus on the areas where people need help most.
Keep families in their homes.
Support for safe and stable families.
Access to essential healthcare services.
Fair wages and safe workplaces.
Stop unfair practices and debt issues.
Support for Native communities.