LegalCORPS – Minneapolis, MN

Business Law for the Community

LegalCORPS is a pioneering non-profit organization based in Minneapolis that provides free legal assistance to low-income entrepreneurs, small business owners, and non-profits. Founded in 2004, it holds the distinction of being Minnesota’s only statewide business law pro bono program. The organization was created to fill a critical gap in the legal aid system: while many programs assist with criminal or family law, few resources existed for individuals trying to build economic independence through entrepreneurship. LegalCORPS connects clients with a roster of over 500 volunteer attorneys from top law firms and corporations who donate their time and expertise. By helping small businesses launch and grow, LegalCORPS fosters economic development and strengthens communities across the state.

Pro Bono Legal Services

LegalCORPS offers a range of transactional legal services designed to help businesses succeed. Their Brief Advice Clinics provide clients with 30-minute consultations to answer specific legal questions about contracts, employment issues, or regulations. For more complex matters, they offer Full Representation assistance, helping eligible clients with entity formation (LLCs, non-profits), drafting commercial leases, and navigating tax issues. A specialized arm of the organization, the Inventor Assistance Program, was the first of its kind in the nation to help low-income inventors secure patent protection for their innovations. They also assist with trademarks and copyrights, ensuring that intellectual property is protected regardless of a creator’s financial means.

• Business Formation: Helping entrepreneurs structure their startups as LLCs or non-profits.
• Patent Assistance: Guiding inventors through the USPTO patent application process.
• Contract Review: analyzing vendor agreements, leases, and service contracts.
• Non-Profit Law: Assisting charitable organizations with governance and tax-exempt status.

Making Justice Accessible

LegalCORPS operates on the belief that access to the legal system should not be limited by income. To qualify for full representation services, clients generally must meet income guidelines (typically household income below 300% of the federal poverty guidelines). The organization has helped thousands of Minnesotans turn their business dreams into reality, contributing to the creation of jobs and vibrant local economies. They are supported by the Minnesota State Bar Association and numerous charitable foundations. LegalCORPS is not a traditional law firm, but a vital connector that leverages the goodwill of the legal community to serve those in need.

University of St. Thomas Location

The LegalCORPS office is located within Terrence Murphy Hall at the University of St. Thomas Minneapolis campus. This central location on La Salle Avenue places them in the heart of the city’s academic and business district. While much of their work is done remotely or through clinics held at partner locations (such as libraries and community centers), their headquarters serves as the administrative hub for their statewide operations.