Iowa Legal Aid – Des Moines, IA

Justice for All Iowans

Iowa Legal Aid is a nonprofit law firm dedicated to providing critical legal assistance to low-income residents of Des Moines and the surrounding counties. Established to bridge the gap between poverty and justice, the organization serves as a lifeline for those who cannot afford private counsel. With a history of service dating back to 1977, Iowa Legal Aid focuses on civil legal problems that affect the basic necessities of life: housing, safety, and financial stability. The Des Moines office, located in the Financial Center, is staffed by dedicated attorneys and volunteers who work tirelessly to ensure that the legal system works for everyone, not just the wealthy.

Vital Legal Services

The firm handles a broad range of civil legal issues, prioritizing cases where legal intervention can prevent homelessness, abuse, or destitution.

• Domestic Violence: assisting survivors of domestic abuse in obtaining protective orders and navigating divorce or custody proceedings to ensure their safety and independence.
• Housing Stability: Defending tenants against illegal evictions, fighting housing discrimination, and helping families maintain safe and affordable shelter.
• Public Benefits: helping individuals secure or maintain essential government benefits such as Social Security, Medicaid, and food assistance when they have been wrongfully denied.
• Consumer Rights: Protecting seniors and vulnerable adults from financial exploitation, debt collection harassment, and predatory lending practices.
• Disaster Recovery: Providing legal support to victims of natural disasters, helping them navigate insurance claims and government aid.

A Community Pillar

Iowa Legal Aid is more than just a law office; it is a community institution. They utilize a network of volunteer lawyers and interpreters to expand their reach, offering services in multiple languages including Spanish and Vietnamese. The organization does not charge for its services, but eligibility is based on household income and asset guidelines. Located in the Financial Center on Walnut Street, the office is centrally located to serve the greatest number of people in need. By stabilizing families and protecting fundamental rights, Iowa Legal Aid strengthens the entire Des Moines community.