What is the Montana Legal Services Association?

The Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) is a federally and privately funded program that provides free legal assistance in civil cases to low-income people.

What help can I find at MLSA?

• Legal advice and representation for clients,
• Referrals to pro bono attorneys and other providers,
• Self-help clinics,
• Self-help materials, and
• Education brochures, classes and workshops for Montana's low-income community.

To qualify for our services, applicants generally must have income of 125% or less of the federal poverty level and limited assets. You must also be a U.S. citizen or an eligible alien.

We never charge a fee for our services. However, you may have to pay court costs and filing fees.

What areas of law can I find information on?

• Landlord/tenant law,
• Social Security Disability and other public benefits,
• Family law,
• Domestic violence,
• Bankruptcy,
• Indian law,
• Migrant workers' legal issues,
• Consumer matters, and
• Housing discrimination and other civil rights.

What does MLSA not handle?

MLSA does not handle auto accidents, personal injury, business-related matters or any criminal cases (including traffic citations). MLSA usually does not accept ongoing cases for representation, such as changes to parenting plans or existing custody decrees. We cannot accept cases where an attorney's fee may be available.

How can I get more information about MLSA?

Click here for an overview of MLSA services.

Click here for an overview of MLSA services en Espanol.

How can I get help from MLSA?

You can:

• Call the MLSA HelpLine to talk with an intake worker. The HelpLine number is 1 (800) 666-6899. The intake worker will ask you questions about your financial situation and what possessions you own (cars, houses, land). We must decide if you are eligible for our services. 

OR 

• Fill out and send in an application. We will review your application and decide if you are eligible for our services. Click here for MLSA applications.