Legal Aid Services of Oregon – Salem, OR

Vital Legal Support for Low-Income Residents in Salem

Legal Aid Services of Oregon (LASO) plays a crucial role in the Salem community by providing high-quality legal representation and advice to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it. Located in the heart of downtown, the Salem Regional Office focuses on achieving justice for low-income individuals and families across Marion and Polk counties. Unlike private firms, LASO is a non-profit organization dedicated to leveling the playing field in the civil justice system. Their attorneys and staff are committed to protecting the basic needs of vulnerable populations, ensuring that poverty is not a barrier to fair legal treatment.

Housing and Public Benefits

One of the primary pillars of LASO’s work is Housing Law. They tirelessly advocate for tenants facing wrongful eviction, housing discrimination, and unsafe living conditions. By helping families maintain stable housing, they prevent homelessness and community displacement. Additionally, the office assists with Public Benefits issues, helping individuals navigate the often confusing bureaucracy of SNAP (food stamps), TANF, and the Oregon Health Plan. Whether you have been unfairly denied benefits or are facing a termination of services, their team can provide the necessary guidance to appeal these decisions.

Family Law and Domestic Violence Advocacy

For survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking, LASO offers a lifeline. They prioritize Family Law cases that involve physical safety, helping survivors obtain restraining orders and navigate complex divorce or custody proceedings where safety is at risk. Their Domestic Violence Lawyers understand the sensitive nature of these cases and work with trauma-informed care to empower clients. It is important to note that due to limited resources, they generally do not handle general divorce or custody matters unless there is a significant safety issue involved.

Senior Law and Consumer Protection

The Salem office also provides specialized services for seniors, addressing issues such as elder abuse, long-term care disputes, and Bankruptcy or debt collection defense when it threatens a senior’s livelihood. They help protect older adults from financial exploitation and ensure their rights are respected in care facilities. If you are looking to find a lawyer who understands the intersection of poverty and the law, LASO is the region’s primary resource.

Accessible Downtown Location

The office is situated in the 280 Building on Liberty Street SE, a professional hub directly across from the Grand Hotel. This central location ensures that clients can easily access services via public transit or car. The building is ADA accessible, ensuring that all community members can reach the help they need.

We believe that justice should not be a luxury available only to the wealthy. Our mission is to provide critical legal help to the most vulnerable among us.

Please note that LASO does not handle criminal cases (such as traffic tickets or criminal defense). Eligibility for services is based on income and asset guidelines, generally serving those at or below 125% of the federal poverty level. If you qualify and have a civil legal emergency, contacting the Salem Regional Office is the first step toward resolving your legal crisis.