We’re Here to Help
Central Minnesota Legal Services has been providing civil legal services to low-income persons in 21 counties in Central Minnesota for more than 40 years.
The mission of Central Minnesota Legal Services is to increase access to justice by providing high quality legal services to individuals experiencing poverty, challenging inequities, and empowering community members to participate in our civil legal system.
We believe in a legal system that delivers justice to all. Our vision is for a society free from bias and systemic unfairness in which everyone is treated with dignity and respect and justice is readily available regardless of ability to pay.
CMLS helps eligible clients through direct representation, brief advice, and through participating in community legal education programs.
We Defend Those Who Can’t Defend Themselves
CMLS staff provide legal assistance to low-income individuals and families in 21 Central Minnesota counties from three offices located in Minneapolis, Anoka, St. Cloud, and Willmar. Our staff attorneys are dedicated to preserving clients’ basic needs and protecting them from abuse.
In 2015 CMLS assisted over 2,100 individuals and families and helped more than 7,200 additional individuals and families through our self-help clinics.
Volunteer Attorney Program
In order to serve as many people as possible, CMLS also operates an extensive Volunteer Attorney Program (VAP) out of its St. Cloud and Willmar offices. VAP uses private attorneys to provide free legal assistance to clients in a variety of civil legal issues.
CMLS also partners with the Volunteer Lawyers Network in Minneapolis which recruits volunteers to offer services in Hennepin County.
Internships & Employment
CMLS is committed to hiring a diverse staff, dedicated to assisting our clients. Throughout the year, there are many internship opportunities available to college and law school students. CMLS staff includes attorneys, administrative staff, legal secretaries and legal assistants. Check the internship and employment pages for current openings.
Financials
Central Minnesota Legal Services is a 501(c)(3) with a positive reputation. To learn more about CMLS, review our financials today.