1. 1. Programs Make Legal Services Accessible By Edward Adams
2. 2. Introduction A recognized expert in corporate law, corporate finance, and other business disciplines, Edward Adams is a professor at University of Minnesota Law School and is a partner at the law firm Adams Grumbles, LLC. Throughout his distinguished career, Edward Adams has made significant contributions to his community, including founding a program to provide free legal services to community members in New York. When seeking legal services, individuals can learn whether they qualify for free services, based on the type of case, their income, or other factors. For individuals accused of a crime, the US Constitution guarantees the right to a legal counsel in certain scenarios. Those who cannot afford an attorney may qualify for representation by a public defender.
3. 3. Legal Services If an individuals household income is below a certain level, he or she may qualify for pro bono assistance from a legal aid organization. In addition, disabled veterans, immigrants, individuals with HIV/AIDS, and domestic violence survivors may be able to attain some free legal services from organizations servicing those populations. If an individual does not qualify for subsidized legal services because of their income, he or she can seek information on innovative programs, which make legal services more accessible, from the American Bar Association (ABA). The organization maintains a listing of court- and bar-sponsored programs, nonprofit initiatives, and other projects, which may help connect individuals of average means to the legal services they need.