East River Legal Services – Sioux Falls, SD

Equal Access to Justice for All

East River Legal Services (ERLS) is a vital non-profit organization dedicated to providing high-quality civil legal assistance to low-income individuals in Eastern South Dakota. Based in Sioux Falls, ERLS serves a 33-county region, ensuring that those who cannot afford private counsel still have a voice in the legal system. The organization focuses on protecting the rights of the most vulnerable members of society, including victims of domestic violence, seniors, veterans, and families facing housing instability. Unlike private law firms, ERLS does not charge for its services, but clients must meet specific income and asset guidelines to qualify. Their team of dedicated attorneys and staff work tirelessly to bridge the justice gap, offering everything from legal advice and self-help clinics to full representation in court.

Core Areas of Assistance

East River Legal Services prioritizes cases that affect the basic needs and safety of their clients. Their primary areas of practice include:

• Domestic Violence Lawyers: Helping survivors of abuse obtain protection orders, navigate divorce proceedings, and secure safe custody arrangements for their children.
• Housing Lawyers: Defending tenants against wrongful evictions, addressing unsafe living conditions, and preventing homelessness.
• Family Law Lawyers: Assisting with critical family matters such as child custody, visitation, and guardianship, particularly where safety is a concern.
• Elder Law Lawyers: protecting seniors from financial exploitation and assisting with wills, powers of attorney, and advanced directives.
• Public Benefits: helping individuals access and maintain essential support systems like Social Security Disability, Medicaid, and food stamps.
• Consumer and Debt Relief: advising on garnishments, debt collection harassment, and bankruptcy options for those in financial distress.

Committed to the Community

For decades, East River Legal Services has been a beacon of hope for thousands of South Dakotans. They believe that justice should not be a luxury reserved for the wealthy. In addition to direct representation, ERLS actively engages in community outreach and education to empower individuals with knowledge of their legal rights. The Sioux Falls office acts as the central hub for their operations, coordinating efforts across the entire eastern side of the state. If you are facing a legal crisis and cannot afford an attorney, ERLS offers a pathway to stability and justice.

North Main Avenue Location

The office is located on North Main Avenue, just on the northern edge of the downtown Sioux Falls district. Situated near the historic Falls Park area, the building is easily accessible and provides a confidential environment for intake and legal consultations.