Legal Services of North Dakota - Fargo, ND

Justice for All, Regardless of Income

Legal Services of North Dakota (LSND) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality legal assistance to low-income, disadvantaged, and elderly North Dakotans. The Fargo office serves as a critical lifeline for individuals in the Red River Valley who cannot afford private counsel in civil matters. LSND operates on the belief that equal access to justice is a fundamental right, not a privilege reserved for the wealthy. The team of attorneys and staff work tirelessly to protect the basic human needs of their clients, focusing on housing stability, family safety, and financial security. While they do not handle criminal cases, their work in the civil sector helps prevent homelessness, escape domestic violence, and secure essential public benefits. 🏡

Housing and Family Safety

One of the primary areas of focus for LSND is Housing Law. They represent tenants facing eviction, discrimination, or unsafe living conditions, fighting to keep families in their homes. Another critical pillar of their work is Family Law, specifically for survivors of Domestic Violence. The attorneys assist victims in obtaining protection orders, navigating divorce proceedings, and securing custody of their children to ensure a safe environment away from abusers. By providing legal representation in these high-stakes situations, LSND empowers survivors to rebuild their lives with dignity and security.

Public Benefits and Elder Law

Navigating the bureaucracy of government assistance can be overwhelming. LSND helps clients access and maintain Public Benefits such as Social Security, Medicaid, and SNAP. They also have a dedicated focus on Elder Law, assisting seniors (age 60+) with legal issues related to consumer protection, healthcare, and financial exploitation. The Fargo office provides education and outreach to help the elderly understand their rights and avoid scams. Additionally, they may assist with consumer debt issues and bankruptcy for qualifying individuals, offering a fresh start to those trapped in poverty. 👴

• Domestic Violence: Legal aid for protection orders and family safety litigation.
• Housing Defense: Representing tenants in eviction hearings and housing disputes.
• Public Benefits: Assisting with denials and appeals for Social Security and Medicaid.
• Elder Law: Protecting seniors from financial abuse and navigating healthcare laws.
• Consumer Law: Help with debt collection harassment and predatory lending.

The Fargo office is located on North University Drive, just north of downtown. Because demand for their services is high, LSND typically operates by application and appointment. They are a grantee of the Legal Services Corporation and rely on the support of the community and volunteer attorneys to expand their reach. For those who feel voiceless in the legal system, Legal Services of North Dakota acts as a powerful advocate for fairness and equality.